The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has raised concerns about the potential occurrence of heavy rainfall in the near future in Borno, Taraba, Gombe, Bauchi, and Kano states in the northern region. This warning followed the observation of thundercloud activities in the northeastern part of the country.
In an official statement released by NiMet’s Central Forecast Office (CFO), the general manager of public relations, Muntari Ibrahim highlighted the current presence of thunderstorm cells over the northern states, including Borno, Taraba, Gombe, Bauchi and Kano. The statement also predicted their westward movement, resulting in squally thunderstorms in several cities.
The CFO further disclosed that these thunderstorm cells are expected to propagate eastward, bringing thunderstorms accompanied by squalls to Plateau, FCT, Nasarawa, Jigawa, Adamama, Yobe, Borno, Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano and Katsina states within the next 2 to 6 hours.
NiMet advises residents of the areas at risk to be cautious as strong winds may precede the heavy rains. It warns of the potential danger of falling trees, electric poles, unsecured objects, and weak buildings. The public is urged to stay indoors during heavy rainfall to minimize the risk of lightning strikes.
Additionally, NiMet recommends that airline operators regularly obtain weather reports from the agency to facilitate effective planning for their operations.
Considering the likelihood of moderate to heavy rainfall, there is also a possibility of flash floods. Therefore, the public is advised to exercise necessary caution.
NiMet emphasised the importance of proactive measures by disaster risk managers, agencies and individuals to prevent the loss of lives and property during the rainy season.
The agency assured the public that it will continue to monitor the weather closely and provide timely updates as necessary.
