The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a fresh alert, warning of widespread thunderstorms, heavy rains, and possible flash floods across the country between Monday and Wednesday.
In its three-day weather outlook released on Sunday in Abuja, the agency said northern states such as Adamawa and Taraba will experience isolated thunderstorms and light rains in the morning on Monday, while later in the day, parts of Kaduna, Gombe, Kebbi, Zamfara, Bauchi, Southern Borno, and Taraba will also be affected.
For the central region, NiMet forecast a cloudy atmosphere with intervals of sunshine, accompanied by thunderstorms and light rains in areas including the Federal Capital Territory, Nasarawa, and Niger in the morning. More widespread thunderstorms with moderate rainfall are expected in the afternoon and evening.
In the southern region, cloudy skies with sunshine intervals are anticipated, alongside thunderstorms and light rains in states such as Ebonyi, Abia, Imo, Lagos, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom. Heavier rainfall and thunderstorms are expected to follow later in the day.
On Tuesday, NiMet predicted cloudy conditions with thunderstorms across northern states including Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Kebbi, Bauchi, Adamawa, and Taraba. Central states such as Plateau, Kogi, Benue, and Nasarawa will also record isolated thunderstorms. The southern states are expected to face heavier downpours, with flash floods likely in Bayelsa, Ebonyi, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers.
By Wednesday, thunderstorms and light rains will persist across most parts of the country. Northern states like Bauchi, Gombe, Borno, Adamawa, and Taraba are expected to experience early morning rainfall, while central and southern regions will face thunderstorms and moderate rains through the day.
The agency urged states with flood risks to activate emergency response measures, warning the public to drive carefully during rainfall and avoid taking shelter under trees. Farmers were also advised against applying fertilizers or pesticides before rain, while households were encouraged to fasten loose objects and unplug electrical appliances.
NiMet further advised airline operators to obtain updated, airport-specific weather reports for safer flight planning.