Residents across Southern Nigeria, including Lagos and other coastal states, have been placed on alert as the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) forecasts widespread thunderstorms, moderate to heavy rainfall, and strong winds expected to intensify as Monday progresses.
In its weather outlook released on Sunday, NiMet said the day will begin under cloudy skies across much of the southern region, with early signs of isolated thunderstorms likely in parts of Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Edo, Delta, Rivers, Cross River and Akwa Ibom.
“Cloudy skies with chances of isolated thunderstorms with moderate rains are expected over the southern states in the morning hours,” NiMet stated.
“There are strong indications that storm activity will increase in coverage and intensity later in the day, with potential disruptions in some areas.”
The agency warned that as the day advances into the afternoon and evening, the storms could become more widespread and intense, raising the risk of flash flooding, poor visibility and travel delays in several urban centres.
NiMet issued a series of advisories, cautioning residents to take proactive safety measures as volatile weather conditions build up.
“Strong winds may precede thunderstorms,” the agency warned, urging residents to “secure loose objects to prevent damage or injury.”
Motorists were also advised to exercise caution on the roads due to slippery surfaces and reduced visibility.
“Drivers should avoid speeding during rainfall and maintain safe distances, as wet roads significantly increase the risk of accidents,” the forecast noted.
The agency further warned residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas to remain vigilant.
“People living in flood-prone locations are advised to relocate temporarily or take precautionary steps during periods of heavy rainfall,” NiMet added.
With lightning and turbulent weather expected, the agency stressed the importance of safety for both air and ground operations.
“Lightning strikes are possible during thunderstorms. Members of the public are advised to seek proper shelter and avoid open spaces during storms,” it cautioned.
NiMet also called on airline operators to prioritise safety by relying on real-time weather intelligence.
“Airline operators are strongly advised to obtain airport-specific weather reports from NiMet offices for effective flight planning and safe operations.”
While the southern region is expected to experience early and more intense activity, NiMet said parts of North-Central Nigeria will see a gradual build-up of storm conditions.
States such as Niger, Kwara, Kogi, Benue, Nasarawa, Plateau, and the Federal Capital Territory are expected to have a mix of cloudy skies and sunshine in the morning before thunderstorms develop later in the day.
“A calm and warm morning may give way to thunderstorms later in the day,” the agency said, urging residents to plan outdoor engagements early.
In the northern region, sunny and hot conditions are expected to dominate the early hours, with isolated thunderstorms predicted later in parts of Adamawa and Taraba.
“Hot and sunny conditions will prevail in most northern areas during the morning, with isolated thunderstorms expected in the afternoon and evening hours,” NiMet added.
