NiMet Issues Warning as Three-Day Dusty Haze Engulfs Nigeria, Urges Caution for Asthma Patients
By: Shabach Bako
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has raised concerns over haziness and cloudiness expected to shroud the country from Monday to Wednesday. Asthma patients and individuals with respiratory issues are cautioned to take preventive measures, including wearing masks.
NiMet’s weather outlook, released on Sunday, predicts moderate dust haze with a horizontal visibility range of 2km to 5km over northern and north-central states during this period. The agency highlights the importance of caution, particularly for those with respiratory vulnerabilities.
Except for Benue, Kogi, and Kwara, where patches of cloud in the hazy atmosphere are anticipated, NiMet forecasts patches of clouds over the inland areas of the South throughout the three-day period. Coastal regions may experience isolated thunderstorms over parts of Edo, Ondo, Ogun, Lagos, Delta, Rivers, and Bayelsa states during the afternoon and evening hours.
On Tuesday, NiMet expects a continuation of moderate dust haze with a visibility range of 2km to 5km over the northern and north-central regions. Patches of clouds are anticipated in a hazy atmosphere, excluding Kwara, Benue, and Kogi.
The weather agency foresees a slight dust haze over the northern region on Wednesday. While patches of cloud in a hazy atmosphere are expected over the north-central region, isolated thunderstorms are predicted in Plateau, Kwara, Benue, and Kogi states later in the day.
NiMet advises individuals with respiratory issues to wear face masks as a precautionary measure. The statement also recommends that children and the elderly wear warm clothing at night, emphasizing the importance of moisturizing the skin and lips due to the prevailing weather conditions.
In addition, NiMet advises airline operators to obtain updated weather reports and forecasts for effective planning in their operations during this period. The agency’s proactive approach aims to ensure the safety and well-being of the public amidst the challenging weather conditions.
