NiMet predicts 3-day rains and sunshine from Saturday

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecast a mix of sunshine, cloud cover and rainfall across Nigeria from Saturday through Monday, with thunderstorms expected in several parts of the country.

In its weather outlook released on Friday, July 17, in Abuja, NiMet said the northern region will experience predominantly sunny conditions on Saturday, with a few patches of cloud across the area. The agency also predicted isolated thunderstorms accompanied by light to moderate rainfall over parts of Taraba State later in the day. For the North Central region, NiMet forecast cloudy skies with intervals of sunshine throughout Saturday, July 18.

In the southern region, the agency predicted cloudy conditions with periods of sunshine and a chance of light thunderstorms over parts of Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states during the day. It added that moderate thunderstorms are expected later on Saturday across parts of Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Lagos, Edo, Delta, Imo, Abia, Ebonyi, Anambra, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River and Akwa Ibom states.

On Sunday, NiMet forecast mostly sunny weather with patches of cloud across the northern states, while isolated thunderstorms with light to moderate rainfall are expected over parts of Taraba State in the afternoon or evening. The North Central region is expected to remain cloudy with intervals of sunshine throughout the day.

For the South, NiMet predicted cloudy conditions with sunny intervals and forecast moderate thunderstorms over parts of Ondo, Osun, Ogun, Lagos, Imo, Abia, Enugu, Ebonyi, Anambra, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Bayelsa, Edo and Delta states later in the day. On Monday, July 20, the agency said the northern region will continue to experience sunny skies with a few patches of cloud throughout the forecast period.

The North Central region is also expected to record cloudy conditions with intervals of sunshine. In the South, NiMet forecast cloudy weather with sunny spells and predicted moderate thunderstorms over parts of Delta, Edo, Bayelsa, Cross River, Akwa Ibom and Rivers states later in the day.

The agency advised residents to take precautions in areas where thunderstorms are expected. “Strong winds may precede the rains in areas where thunderstorms are likely to occur; the public should take adequate precaution and ensure that loose objects are fastened to avoid collision.

“Driving under heavy rain should be avoided. Disconnect electrical appliances from electrical sockets. Stay away from tall trees to avoid being struck by falling branches or broken branches. Airline operators are advised to get airport-specific weather reports (flight documentation) from NiMet for effective planning in their operations,” the agency said.

NiMet also warned that temperatures are expected to remain high during the period, urging members of the public to wear breathable clothing, remain in well-ventilated environments and stay adequately hydrated.