The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecast widespread dust haze across northern and central parts of the country, alongside cloudiness and thunderstorms in the southern region from Monday through Wednesday.
In its weather outlook released on Sunday in Abuja, the agency warned that varying intensities of dust haze would dominate much of the northern and North Central regions, while southern states should expect cloudy skies with intervals of sunshine and possible thunderstorms.
Monday Outlook
According to NiMet, slight dust haze is expected across the northern region throughout Monday’s forecast period. However, parts of Borno and Yobe States are projected to experience moderate dust haze, with horizontal visibility ranging between 2 kilometres and 5 kilometres.
The agency noted that reduced visibility in these areas may affect outdoor activities and transportation, particularly road travel.
For the North Central region, NiMet predicted slight dust haze persisting throughout the day.
In contrast, the southern region is expected to experience a predominantly cloudy atmosphere interspersed with periods of sunshine. There are slim chances of morning thunderstorms over parts of Cross River and Akwa Ibom States.
As the day progresses, thunderstorms accompanied by light rainfall are anticipated over parts of Ondo, Ogun, Lagos, Edo, Bayelsa, Cross River, Rivers, Delta, and Akwa Ibom States.
Tuesday Outlook
On Tuesday, NiMet projects a worsening of dust conditions in the northern region, with moderate dust haze expected throughout the forecast period. Horizontal visibility is again estimated at between 2km and 5km.
The North Central region will continue to experience slight dust haze during the day.
In the southern region, cloudy conditions with intermittent sunshine are anticipated. The agency forecast chances of morning thunderstorms over parts of Akwa Ibom and Cross River States.
Later in the day, thunderstorms with light rainfall are expected over parts of Lagos, Oyo, Ondo, Ogun, Edo, Bayelsa, Cross River, Rivers, Delta, and Akwa Ibom States.
Wednesday Outlook
By Wednesday, dust conditions are expected to intensify further in both the northern and North Central regions.
NiMet predicted thick dust haze across the entire northern region throughout the forecast period. The North Central region is also expected to experience thick dust haze during the same period, suggesting a significant reduction in horizontal visibility.
In the southern region, the weather pattern will remain relatively stable, with a cloudy atmosphere and intervals of sunshine forecast. There are chances of morning thunderstorms over parts of Cross River and Akwa Ibom States.
Later in the day, thunderstorms with light rainfall are expected over parts of Bayelsa, Lagos, Ondo, Ogun, Edo, Cross River, Rivers, Delta, and Akwa Ibom States.
Health and Safety Advisory
NiMet urged the public to take necessary precautions as dust particles are expected to remain suspended in the atmosphere across the northern region, the North Central region, and inland states of the South.
The agency specifically advised individuals with asthma and other respiratory conditions to exercise caution due to the potential health impacts of dust-laden air. Prolonged exposure to dust haze can aggravate breathing difficulties, cause eye irritation, and trigger allergic reactions.
Residents in affected areas are encouraged to limit prolonged outdoor exposure, use face masks where necessary, and ensure adequate hydration.
Motorists have also been advised to exercise caution, particularly in areas where visibility may be significantly reduced. Drivers are urged to use headlights appropriately, maintain safe distances, and avoid excessive speed during periods of heavy dust or rainfall.
NiMet further cautioned that driving during rainfall should be done carefully to prevent accidents associated with slippery roads and poor visibility.
Aviation Advisory
For the aviation sector, the agency advised airline operators to obtain airport-specific weather reports, also known as flight documentation, from NiMet to facilitate effective operational planning.
Given the projected variations in visibility and potential thunderstorms, accurate and up-to-date meteorological information is considered critical for flight scheduling, routing, and safety.
The three-day forecast highlights the transitional nature of Nigeria’s weather during this period, with dry and dusty conditions prevailing in the northern belt while convective activities produce thunderstorms in the southern states.
NiMet reaffirmed its commitment to providing timely and accurate weather information to support public safety, economic activities, and environmental awareness.
As the dust haze intensifies midweek in the North and North Central regions, and thunderstorms develop intermittently in the South, residents nationwide are advised to monitor official updates and adhere to safety recommendations to minimise health and transportation risks.
