NiMet warns of thunderstorms and rainfall nationwide

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has once again reminded Nigerians of how unpredictable the weather can be, warning that the country should expect days filled with thunderstorms and rainfall across different regions. In its three-day forecast released in Abuja, the agency projected that from Monday to Wednesday, various parts of Nigeria will see a mix of cloudy skies, light showers, and moderate to heavy rainfall, with some areas at risk of flooding.

For those living in the northern states, NiMet said Monday morning would likely begin with thunderstorms and moderate rains. Places such as Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, Kaduna, Kano, Bauchi, Gombe, and Taraba were all highlighted in the forecast. Later in the day, more isolated thunderstorms are expected to sweep through Kebbi, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kaduna, and Taraba, reminding residents that the day could shift from dry spells to heavy downpours in just a matter of hours.

The central region of the country will not be left out of the weather changes. NiMet explained that cloudy conditions mixed with intervals of sunshine and rainfall would dominate the skies. For states like Niger, Kwara, the Federal Capital Territory, Kogi, Benue, and Nasarawa, Monday morning could bring thunderstorms and light rains. But by the afternoon and evening hours, stronger rains are likely, especially in Benue, Plateau, Kogi, and Nasarawa. In essence, while the morning may offer a brief respite, residents of the central states should brace themselves for wetter conditions as the day wears on.

In the southern region, the forecast points to cloudy skies with light showers in states like Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, and Cross River early in the day. But NiMet quickly added that this won’t last, as later hours are expected to bring isolated thunderstorms and moderate rainfall across the entire region. On subsequent days, places like Edo, Ondo, Abia, Ebonyi, Anambra, Enugu, Imo, Delta, Rivers, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom will all face light showers in the mornings, followed by moderate thunderstorms by evening. For residents of Lagos and other southern states, this means the familiar routine of waking up to drizzle, only to deal with heavier rains on their way back from work or school, may continue through the week.

The northern axis, which often swings between extreme sunshine and storms during the rainy season, is also expected to witness changes. NiMet stated that while sunny skies with patches of clouds will dominate much of the period, thunderstorms are still likely in some areas. For instance, Taraba and Adamawa could see storms in the mornings, with Zamfara, Kaduna, Gombe, and Adamawa later facing isolated thunderstorms and moderate rainfall. On other days within the three-day window, light rains are expected in Adamawa, Kaduna, and Taraba in the mornings, followed by isolated thunderstorms in Adamawa, Taraba, Kaduna, and Bauchi. For many in these regions, it is another reminder of how quickly the weather can swing from bright skies to stormy ones.

Perhaps the most concerning part of the forecast is NiMet’s warning about possible flooding in some states. The agency pointed out that Benue, Taraba, and Cross River face an increased risk of flooding during this period. Residents in these states have been advised to activate their emergency response plans immediately. NiMet urged them to take extra caution by securing lives and property before the rains intensify.

Practical safety tips were also included in the agency’s advisory. Nigerians were told to secure loose objects left outdoors, which could become dangerous projectiles during strong winds. People were also warned to disconnect electrical appliances during storms to prevent damage or accidents, and to avoid standing under tall trees which might shed heavy branches in the middle of a thunderstorm.

Drivers were strongly advised to avoid moving through heavy rains or flood-prone areas, as flash floods remain a serious threat to road users. NiMet also cautioned farmers not to apply fertilisers or pesticides immediately before rainfall, since these chemicals can be washed away, leading to both wasted resources and environmental harm. For the aviation industry, airline operators were urged to obtain airport-specific weather reports to ensure effective flight planning and passenger safety.

These warnings and forecasts highlight just how essential weather awareness has become in Nigeria. Each year, heavy rainfall and flash flooding cause damage to homes, displace families, and disrupt businesses across the country. Cities like Lagos, Makurdi, and Calabar are often at the centre of such disasters. With climate change altering weather patterns globally, the risk of intense rainfall and its consequences is becoming even more pressing.

NiMet’s latest forecast shows that weather information is not something to be ignored or taken lightly. By preparing ahead of time, communities can avoid losses and reduce risks. For families, it may mean planning indoor activities for children or rescheduling long trips. For farmers, it could be the difference between protecting crops and losing them to flooding. For city dwellers, especially in flood-prone areas, it could mean the precaution of moving valuables to higher ground and checking that drainage systems are clear.

While thunderstorms and rainfall are not new to Nigerians during the wet season, what makes this forecast important is the reminder that natural forces can change plans in an instant. By listening to expert predictions and taking simple steps to prepare, people can turn what might have been a disaster into just another rainy day.