More heat to come — NiMet braces Nigerians for harsher climate

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a stark warning regarding an impending wave of heat that is expected to impact various parts of the country.

In a recent release, NiMet provided a visual representation of the country’s map, delineating areas susceptible to varying degrees of heat stress.

Notably, Kano, Gombe, Sokoto, Yobe, and approximately eight other northern states were highlighted as facing extreme danger due to the harsh weather conditions, which could potentially lead to sunstroke.

Residents of Kaduna, Kwara, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Niger, Kogi, and several other states were advised to make necessary preparations as the heat stress may result in muscle cramps, heatstroke, and heat exhaustion.

Similarly, individuals residing in Ado-Ekiti, Akwa-Ibom, Ondo, and Osun were urged to exercise extreme caution as the weather conditions pose similar risks of muscle cramps, heatstroke, and heat exhaustion.

NiMet emphasized that the forecast pertains specifically to Friday, April 5th, highlighting the possibility of temporary relief in the form of rainfall in certain southern regions. However, the agency underscored that heat stress is influenced by multiple factors including humidity, sunlight, wind, hydration, clothing, and physical fitness.

The agency’s advisory included several precautionary measures for mitigating the effects of the impending heatwave.

Recommendations encompassed staying hydrated, seeking shelter in air-conditioned environments, avoiding leaving children in parked vehicles, wearing appropriate clothing such as hats and sunglasses, and ensuring infants are adequately ventilated and hydrated.