The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned that active thunderstorms currently affecting parts of northern and central Nigeria are expected to spread to eight states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) within the next six hours, with residents advised to prepare for heavy rainfall, strong winds and possible flash flooding.……
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned that active thunderstorms currently affecting parts of northern and central Nigeria are expected to spread to eight states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) within the next six hours, with residents advised to prepare for heavy rainfall, strong winds and possible flash flooding.
The weather alert was issued on Wednesday in a post on its official X page.
According to the agency, active thunderstorms were observed over the Chad Republic, Plateau, Nasarawa, Taraba and Benue States as of the time the advisory was issued.
NiMet said the thunderstorm system is expected to propagate within one to six hours, affecting Borno, Adamawa, Taraba, Nasarawa, Southern Kaduna, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Benue and Kogi States.
The agency warned that the storms could be preceded by strong winds, followed by moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by frequent lightning.
It added that the expected weather conditions could trigger flash flooding in low-lying and flood-prone communities, while strong winds may bring down tree branches and displace unsecured outdoor objects.
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NiMet also cautioned that the thunderstorms could lead to power outages and electrical hazards, as well as reduced visibility and slippery road conditions, posing risks to motorists and other road users.
The agency further warned that heavy rainfall could result in nutrient leaching from farmlands where fertilisers or pesticides had been applied before the rains.
As part of its safety advisory, NiMet urged residents to secure loose outdoor objects to minimise damage from strong winds and advised motorists to drive cautiously during rainfall while avoiding flooded roads.
The agency also recommended disconnecting electrical appliances from power sockets during thunderstorms and advised members of the public to stay away from tall trees and weak structures to reduce the risk of injury.
NiMet further urged airline operators to obtain airport-specific weather reports for effective flight planning and encouraged Nigerians to continue monitoring its official weather updates and advisories for the latest information.
