NiMet Forecasts 3-Day Dust Haze And Thunderstorms Across Nigeria  

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency has forecast widespread dust haze, cloudiness, and isolated thunderstorms across different parts of Nigeria from Sunday to Tuesday.

The forecast was issued by NiMet in its weather outlook released on Sunday in Abuja.

The advisory comes as dusty atmospheric conditions persist across the northern and central regions, with potential health, transport, and aviation implications nationwide.

According to NiMet, moderate dust haze is expected over the northern region on Monday and Tuesday, with conditions projected to intensify later in the week.

The agency stated that the central region will experience thick to moderate dust haze throughout the forecast period, while inland cities in the southern region are expected to record moderate dust haze.

NiMet also noted that coastal areas will have sunnier conditions with cloud patches and isolated thunderstorms in some states.

“It predicted sunny skies with patches of clouds over the coastal region with prospects of isolated thunderstorms accompanied with light rains over parts of Lagos, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River, Akwa Ibom and Delta States later in the day,” the agency said.

NiMet explained that the presence of suspended dust particles in the atmosphere could significantly affect air quality, increasing the risk of breathing difficulties and other health challenges.

The agency noted that dusty conditions reduce visibility and can worsen existing medical conditions, particularly for people with asthma and other respiratory illnesses.

Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with underlying health issues, were advised to limit outdoor exposure where possible and take necessary protective measures to reduce the impact of poor air quality.

In addition to health concerns, it also warned that visibility could be poor on roads and recommended that drivers slow down and be more careful, particularly if it rains.

For flights, NiMet advised airline operators to use detailed, airport-specific weather reports from the agency to plan their operations and avoid weather-related disruptions.