By Ayomide Otitoju
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecast widespread rainfall and thunderstorms across most parts of the country on Thursday, warning of possible flooding, strong winds and reduced visibility in several states.
In its latest weather outlook, the agency said the wet conditions would affect states across the northern, North Central and southern regions.
According to NiMet, northern states will experience patches of cloud on Thursday morning, with thunderstorms and light rainfall expected over parts of Gombe, Bauchi, Kaduna, Adamawa and Taraba states.
The agency warned that some areas could experience localised flooding and urged residents to take necessary precautions.
Later in the day, isolated thunderstorms accompanied by moderate rainfall are expected in parts of Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Zamfara, Kebbi, Sokoto, Yobe, Adamawa, Borno and Taraba states.
In the North Central region, NiMet forecast morning thunderstorms with light rainfall, followed by more widespread thunderstorms and moderate rainfall across parts of Niger, Kwara, Benue, Kogi, Plateau, Nasarawa and the Federal Capital Territory.
For the southern region, the agency predicted morning rainfall over parts of Lagos, Ogun, Ondo and Ekiti states, with moderate rainfall expected to spread across most areas later in the afternoon and evening.
NiMet warned that the prolonged rainfall could trigger localised flooding, particularly in low-lying and poorly drained communities.
The agency also advised residents to expect strong winds ahead of thunderstorms, urging motorists to exercise caution during periods of heavy rainfall and poor visibility.
It further cautioned against walking or driving through floodwaters and advised the public to avoid taking shelter under tall trees during thunderstorms because of the risk of lightning strikes.
NiMet also urged airline operators to obtain airport-specific weather reports from the agency to ensure safe and efficient flight operations.
