NiMet Warns of Thunderstorms, Flash Floods Across Nigeria

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a nationwide weather forecast, warning of potential thunderstorms, moderate to heavy rainfall, and possible flash floods from Monday through Wednesday.

In its latest three-day weather outlook, released on Sunday in Abuja, the agency predicted widespread rainfall and stormy conditions, especially in northern, central, and southern parts of the country, with areas at risk of flooding urged to take precautions.

Northern Region

On Monday morning, thunder and moderate rain are expected in Adamawa, Taraba, Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Jigawa, Kano, and Katsina. These conditions are expected to persist through the afternoon and evening across the entire northern zone.

NiMet highlighted a high flood risk for parts of Adamawa, Taraba, and Bauchi during this period.

By Tuesday, more thunderstorms and moderate rainfall are likely in Taraba, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, Kaduna, and Zamfara, while Borno, Bauchi, Gombe, Yobe, and Jigawa are expected to be affected by Wednesday.

Central Region

Light morning showers are anticipated on Monday in Benue, Niger, Nasarawa, Kogi, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), with continued light rain forecast for the afternoon in Plateau, Kwara, and surrounding states.

The trend continues into Tuesday and Wednesday, with intermittent rains expected across the region, particularly in the FCT, Kogi, Benue, and Niger.

Southern Region

Residents in the South should prepare for cloudy skies and light morning rain across Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo, Anambra, Abia, Ogun, Edo, Delta, Lagos, Rivers, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Bayelsa from Monday through Wednesday.

Later in the day, similar weather is expected, with a high risk of flooding in Oyo, Ogun, Edo, Delta, Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom at different times throughout the forecast period.

Safety Advisory

NiMet urged the public to take safety seriously, advising against driving in heavy rainfall and encouraging vulnerable groups to stay warm amid possible cool nighttime temperatures.

Citizens are advised to:

• Secure loose outdoor objects,

• Unplug electrical devices during storms,

• Stay away from tall trees and unstable structures,

• Follow weather updates regularly on www.nimet.gov.ng.

The agency also advised airline operators to obtain airport-specific weather briefings for safe and effective flight planning.