The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has sounded the alarm over a looming weather disturbance expected to affect large parts of the country over a three-day period, beginning Friday, April 11. According to a high-impact forecast issued by the agency on Thursday, several southern states will bear the brunt of the adverse weather, with the likelihood of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and possible flooding.
NiMet’s advisory warns that areas in the southwest including Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Lagos, Ondo, and Ekiti states are expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall. Rainfall activity is also forecast in Edo, Delta, and Imo states, with potential implications for low-lying communities prone to flash floods. The forecast extends to central Nigeria, with states like Niger, Kwara, and the Federal Capital Territory likely to experience low to moderate rainfall. Light showers are also anticipated in Plateau, Adamawa, and Kaduna, while states such as Nasarawa, Kogi, and Benue are expected to witness intermittent rain.
As the weather system intensifies into Saturday, the South-South region is forecast to face more severe conditions. Cross River and Akwa Ibom are expected to be hardest hit, with rainfall levels possibly reaching up to 50mm in a 24-hour period. Other states flagged for heightened weather activity include Bayelsa and Rivers, where high precipitation and strong winds could lead to flash flooding and infrastructural disruptions.
By Sunday, the agency projects a gradual weakening of the storm system, although Osun and Ekiti remain under significant threat due to saturated ground and continued rainfall. Lagos, Oyo, and Ogun states will also remain on alert as flood risks linger. The forecast further includes states like Ondo, Imo, and Anambra, where residual rainfall is expected to keep emergency services on high alert.
In contrast, the northern part of the country is projected to experience a different set of challenges, primarily driven by strong wind events. Jigawa and Yobe are first in line to experience gusty conditions, followed by Borno, Bauchi, and Niger. Wind speeds are expected to exceed 30 knots in certain areas, a development that poses risks to property, transportation, and aviation. Kwara, Kogi, and Benue states are also included in the wind belt forecast, with residents advised to prepare accordingly.
NiMet has issued early notifications to airline operators regarding potential turbulence and visibility challenges. Residents across affected areas are being urged to secure outdoor items, avoid unnecessary travel during storm periods, and adhere to safety advisories. Riverine communities are specifically advised to closely monitor water levels, as flash floods may occur with little warning.
The agency stated that emergency services in various states have been placed on standby and temporary shelters are being prepared where necessary. While the weather system is expected to taper off by Sunday evening, NiMet cautioned that residual effects may linger into Monday, especially in areas where drainage systems are overwhelmed.
Citizens are strongly advised to stay updated through official weather bulletins and avoid crossing flooded roads or engaging in risky behavior during the period of intense rainfall and wind activity. With clear regional variations in the severity of the forecast, the southern regions are primarily at risk of water-related hazards, while the northern axis must brace for potential wind damage.
NiMet reaffirmed its commitment to providing timely updates as the situation develops, urging the public to remain weather-conscious and prioritize safety throughout the forecast window of April 11 to 13.
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