The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a three-day weather forecast warning of thunderstorms and moderate to heavy rainfall across various parts of the country from Monday to Wednesday. The forecast, released on Sunday in Abuja, highlights the potential for flash floods, especially in the northern and central regions.
🌩️ Northern Region: Thunderstorms and Flood Risks
On Monday morning, thunderstorms with moderate rainfall are expected in Jigawa, Zamfara, Kano, Kaduna, Bauchi, Yobe, and Katsina states. Later in the day, the rains are predicted to spread to Kebbi, Adamawa, and Taraba.
NiMet specifically warned of a high risk of flash flooding in Bauchi, Jigawa, Katsina, Kaduna, and Kano, urging residents to take preventive measures and avoid driving through flooded areas. The agency cautioned that the rainfall could cause transportation disruptions and affect daily activities.
🌧️ Central Region: Cloudiness and Rainfall Expected
Residents in the central states — including Niger, Benue, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Plateau, and Nasarawa — can expect cloudy skies in the morning, followed by light to moderate rainfall later in the day.
Parts of Plateau State are at particular risk of flooding, and NiMet advised people in low-lying areas to remain vigilant due to possible water accumulation and flash floods.
🌦️ Southern Region: Persistent Rain Through Midweek
In the southern region, light to moderate rainfall is forecast across Ondo, Imo, Abia, Enugu, Ebonyi, Anambra, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom on Monday.
NiMet stated that this pattern is typical for the ongoing wet season and is expected to persist through midweek.
🔄 Weather Outlook for Tuesday and Wednesday
- Tuesday:
- Northern region will see sunny skies with patches of clouds.
- Thunderstorms and rain will continue in Adamawa, Taraba, and nearby states.
- Moderate rainfall is expected in central and southern regions.
- Wednesday:
- Northern states will experience sunshine and morning thunderstorms.
- The central region will remain cloudy with moderate rain.
- The southern states — especially Ebonyi, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Cross River — will have morning showers followed by moderate to heavy rain later in the day.
⚠️ Safety Advisory from NiMet
NiMet warned that heavy rainfall could lead to flash flooding, especially in vulnerable areas. The agency urged residents to:
- Avoid driving during heavy downpours
- Stay indoors during thunderstorms
- Secure loose items around their homes
- Disconnect electrical appliances during storms
- Avoid sheltering under trees
Airline operators were also advised to obtain location-specific weather updates for flight safety, while the general public is encouraged to stay informed via NiMet’s official website and platforms.
