BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) has released a fresh weather forecast and called for strict adherence by pilots and the public, especially those with asthma and breathing challenges.
It said on Tuesday, December 5, there will be sunny and hazy skies anticipated over the Northern region with few patches of clouds expected over parts of Taraba state during the forecast period.
“Sunny and hazy skies are expected over the North central regions, with few patches of cloud over parts of Kwara, Kogi and Benue states throughout the forecast period.
“Cloudy skies with spells of sunshine is envisaged over the inland states of the South and the coastal cities during the morning hours.
“Later in the day, thunderstorms are expected over parts of Edo, Ondo, Abia, Imo, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River and Delta states.
On Wednesday, December 6, NiMET disclosed that dust haze is expected over the northern region during the forecast period.
“Cloudy skies with spells of sunshine are expected over the Inland states of the South and the coastal areas during the morning hours.
“In the afternoon/evening hours, thunderstorms are expected over parts of Edo, Imo, Abia, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states”, it explained .
On Thursday, December 7, NiMET said dust haze is expected over the northern region during the forecast period.
“Sunny and hazy skies are anticipated over the North central region within the forecast period. Cloudy skies with spells of sunshine are expected over the Inland states of the South and the coastal cities during the morning hours. Later in the day, thunderstorms are expected over parts of Edo, Abia, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River and Delta states.
“Potential impact (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) (vi) Dust particles are in suspension, the public should take necessary precautions. People with Asthma and other respiratory issues should be cautious of the present weather situations.
“Moderate to heavy rainfall could lead to flash floods.The public is advised to take necessary caution, avoid driving and walking through flood waters.
“Strong winds are likely to precede and accompany the thunderstorms, the public is advised to take necessary safety precautions”, it said.
NiMET asked Disaster Risk Managers, Agencies and individuals to be proactive, to avert loss of lives and property during the rainy season. Airline operators are advised to get updated weather reports from NiMet for effective planning in their operations.
