The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned Nigerians to prepare for rising heat stress as the country gradually transitions from the dry season to the rainy season, particularly across southern region
In its daily weather outlook for Monday, March 9, 2026, posted on X the agency said daytime temperatures are expected to remain high nationwide, ranging between 30°C and 40°C, with peak temperatures of between 38°C and 41°C likely across parts of northern and north-central state
NiMet noted that the persistent hot conditions, combined with increasing humidity in some areas, could lead to thermal discomfort for residents, including those in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territor
Read also: Ekiti, Osun gov’ship elections will serve as litmus test for APC – Oyintiloye
“March signals Nigeria’s transition from the dry season to the rainy season, particularly across the southern region, while hot conditions persist nationwide
“Temperature Outlook Daytime temperatures will remain high across the country, ranging from 30°C to 40°C, with peak values of 38°C–41°C expected over parts of the North and North Central. Warm nights and rising humidity will increase thermal discomfort, including in the Federal Capital Territory,” the agency note
According to the forecast, northern states will experience largely sunny conditions throughout the day, while parts of the central region, including Benue State, Kogi State and Kwara State are expected to see sunny skies with patches of cloud
Across southern Nigeria, the agency predicted a cloudy atmosphere with intervals of sunshine in the morning and the likelihood of isolated thunderstorms accompanied by light rainfall in parts of Akwa Ibom State and Cross River Stat
Later in the day, thunderstorms with light rain are expected in several states including Enugu State, Ogun State, Ondo State, Imo State, Abia State, Edo State, Bayelsa State, Rivers State, Lagos State, Delta State, as well as parts of Cross River and Akwa Ibom state
The agency cautioned that thunderstorms may be accompanied by gusty winds and advised residents in affected areas to take necessary precaution
NiMet also urged people living in regions expected to experience intense sunshine to stay well hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight between noon and 4 p.m., and seek cooler environments where possibl
Airline operators were encouraged to obtain airport-specific weather information from NiMet to support effective operational plannin
The agency explained that March marks the transition period between Nigeria’s dry season and the onset of the rainy season, especially across southern states where rainfall is expected to gradually increase in the coming week
Forecasts indicate that some coastal and inland cities in the South could record rainfall totals exceeding 120 millimetres during the month, while central states may begin to experience isolated thunderstorms toward the latter part of the mont
NiMet further noted that the influence of the Harmattan season is expected to weaken progressively, although early-month dust haze in northern Nigeria may temporarily reduce visibility before declining as atmospheric moisture increase
The agency advised farmers in southern Nigeria to avoid premature planting based on isolated early rains, while farmers in northern states were encouraged to prepare irrigation strategies as hot conditions persis
Public health authorities were also urged to remain vigilant, with increased risks of malaria in southern regions and meningitis outbreaks in parts of northern Nigeria during the hot and dry condition
NiMet added that environmental risks such as bushfires could increase in dry northern areas, while southern cities should ensure proper drainage systems are maintained ahead of the expected rainfal
“Stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure (12–4 pm), and wear light clothing
“Residents in areas expected to experience thunderstorms are advised to take necessary precautions as storms may be accompanied by gusty wind
“With sunny conditions expected over the Northern and parts of the Central States, residents are advised to stay well hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and seek cooler environments where possibl
Read also: Kano eyes higher farm yields, food security gains after France Agro Expo – Commissioner
“Airline operators are encouraged to obtain airport-specific weather information from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) for effective operational planning.,” NiMet advised.
