Northern Nigeria Braces for Above-Normal Rainfall, NiMet Warns of Flood Risks
- The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a warning of above-normal rainfall across key northern states as August ushers in peak rainy season conditions
- Communities in flood-prone areas are urged to prepare for potential flash and riverine flooding due to rising soil moisture and river levels
- Cooler temperatures are also expected, prompting health advisories for vulnerable groups, especially infants and young children
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecasted above-normal rainfall across several northern states, including Gombe, Kano, and Bauchi, as the country approaches the peak of its rainy season.
This projection was disclosed in NiMet’s August weather outlook, released on Tuesday, August 5, by Gayus Musa, the agency’s meteorological manager for Gombe state.
Source: UGC
According to the report, other states expected to experience intensified downpours include Sokoto, Zamfara, Jigawa, Katsina, Yobe, Borno, and Kebbi. NiMet stated that rainfall intensity and frequency were expected to increase significantly throughout August, particularly in the extreme northern regions.
Flood risk heightens as river levels rise
NiMet cautioned that the anticipated weather conditions could lead to elevated soil moisture and rising river levels, thereby increasing the likelihood of flash and riverine flooding.
The agency urged residents in flood-prone and riverine communities to remain vigilant and adhere to local evacuation instructions when issued.
In its advisory, NiMet recommended that essential documents and valuables be stored in waterproof containers to prevent damage. Emergency management agencies were also called upon to act on NiMet’s frequent updates by sensitising and preparing communities for potential evacuation or other risk mitigation measures.
Community preparedness and health advisory issued
Community leaders were encouraged to activate local flood response plans and raise awareness on flood safety, hygiene, and health measures. NiMet further noted that temperatures in August were expected to remain relatively low, especially during the night and early morning hours, which could impact vulnerable populations.
“The public is advised to dress infants and young children warmly and boost immunity through proper nutrition, especially increased vitamin C intake, to reduce the risk of seasonal illnesses. Cooler mornings and nights may lead to cold-related illnesses; dress infants and young children warmly,” the agency stated.
While northern states brace for heavy rainfall, NiMet predicted slightly below-normal rainfall in parts of Taraba, southern Adamawa, and the Federal Capital Territory. In the Southwest, a brief dry spell is expected in early August, with a gradual recovery of rainfall anticipated later in the month.
Source: Twitter
Thunderstorms, heavy rainfall expected
Legit.ng earlier reported that the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) projected a stretch of thunderstorms and rainfall likely to affect various regions across the country from Sunday through Tuesday.
The forecast signalled potential disruptions as both northern and southern states brace for shifting weather patterns and varying intensities of rainfall.
According to the statement released on Saturday, the weather outlook anticipates early morning thunderstorms on Sunday in several southern states, including Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Ekiti, Ebonyi, and Lagos, alongside parts of Taraba and Adamawa in the northeast. These weather events are expected to extend into the afternoon and evening, impacting areas such as Katsina, Kano, Zamfara, Kaduna, and Bauchi with persistent rain and lightning activity.
Proofreading by Kola Muhammed, copy editor at Legit.ng.
Source: Legit.ng
