NiMet Predicts Nationwide Thunderstorms and Rainfall from Friday to Sunday

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecast significant thunderstorms and rainfall across various parts of the country between Friday and Sunday, urging residents and relevant agencies to take precautionary measures against potential weather-related disruptions. In its latest weather outlook, NiMet indicated that the weather systems will affect several states across the North, Central, and Southern regions, driven by increased moisture influx and atmospheric instability.

According to the agency, parts of the North including Sokoto, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, and Zamfara are expected to experience thunderstorms beginning on Friday, which could extend into the weekend. The Central region comprising Abuja, Niger, Plateau, and Kwara is also likely to witness heavy rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning, while coastal states like Lagos, Rivers, Cross River, and Bayelsa are forecast to have prolonged periods of rain, which could lead to flash floods in flood-prone areas.

NiMet further explained that the anticipated weather conditions are typical of the peak rainy season but warned that high-intensity storms may pose risks such as reduced visibility, flooding, and possible damage to infrastructure. The agency advised residents, motorists, and aviation stakeholders to exercise caution and stay informed through its updates to mitigate the impact of the adverse weather. Farmers and those in agribusiness were also encouraged to plan their activities in line with the forecast to prevent losses.

In addition, NiMet highlighted the importance of preparedness, calling on state governments, disaster management agencies, and urban planners to take proactive measures in clearing drainage systems and ensuring that emergency response teams are on standby. The agency noted that climate change has intensified weather variability, leading to more frequent extreme weather events, making proactive risk management essential.

The agency also stated that while the rains are necessary for agricultural production and replenishment of water bodies, communities in low-lying and poorly drained areas should remain vigilant, especially with the risk of riverine and urban flooding. NiMet urged residents to avoid driving or walking through floodwaters and adhere strictly to safety guidelines during thunderstorms to prevent casualties and property damage.

Experts in the meteorological field have observed that Nigeria’s weather patterns in recent years have become increasingly unpredictable, often resulting in extreme events such as flash floods and windstorms that disrupt economic activities. The latest forecast is seen as part of NiMet’s continued efforts to provide timely information to reduce the socio-economic impact of adverse weather conditions.

NiMet emphasized its commitment to providing accurate and timely forecasts, leveraging advanced meteorological tools and satellite data to monitor atmospheric conditions. It reiterated that its forecasts are vital for sectors such as agriculture, transportation, aviation, and disaster management, which depend heavily on accurate weather information for operational planning and safety.

As thunderstorms and heavy rains are projected over the weekend, the agency urged the public to regularly check its official channels for updates and warnings. It further appealed to media organizations to help disseminate the forecast widely to ensure that vulnerable communities and stakeholders can adequately prepare for any eventualities.

Weather analysts have noted that if the predicted thunderstorms materialize as expected, they could temporarily disrupt transport schedules, energy supply, and even commercial activities in some parts of the country. However, they also underscored the importance of rainfall for the agricultural sector and hydroelectric power generation, which rely on consistent water supply during the rainy season.

NiMet’s forecast comes at a time when several states have been grappling with the effects of flooding in past years. By providing advance warnings, the agency hopes that stakeholders will act swiftly to minimize risks and losses. The forecast underscores the importance of adopting adaptive strategies to cope with climate-induced weather fluctuations.

The coming days are expected to test the resilience of both urban and rural communities in managing the challenges of heavy rains and thunderstorms. While the forecast may raise concerns among residents in flood-prone regions, NiMet’s advisory provides an opportunity for authorities and individuals to take early action and avoid preventable disasters.

Experts warn that Nigeria’s vulnerability to climate change makes it imperative for all stakeholders to treat NiMet’s forecasts with utmost seriousness, particularly as unpredictable weather patterns continue to threaten lives and livelihoods. Enhanced coordination between federal and state agencies is seen as vital to minimizing the impacts of the forecasted thunderstorms and rains.

NiMet reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with disaster management agencies, state governments, and communities to ensure that weather advisories translate into actionable measures that safeguard lives, property, and the economy.