Yemi Olakitan
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a critical three-day weather alert, forecasting widespread thunderstorms and heavy rainfall across Nigeria from Wednesday, June 11, to Friday, June 13, 2025. The agency urges citizens to exercise caution and take proactive measures as the country braces for the anticipated wet spell.
NiMet’s latest weather outlook, released from its Abuja headquarters, indicates that all three geo-political zones—Northern, North-Central, and Southern Nigeria—will experience varying intensities of precipitation, with potential for strong winds and flash floods in vulnerable areas.
According to the forecast by NiMET, on Wednesday, early morning thunderstorms are expected over parts of Taraba, Kaduna, and Adamawa, evolving into widespread thunderstorms and rain later in the day across Kebbi, Taraba, Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna, Kano, Sokoto, Gombe, and Bauchi States. This pattern is expected to continue through Thursday and Friday, with areas like Jigawa, Adamawa, and Kano also experiencing significant rainfall.
Residents in parts of Benue, Kwara, Niger, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and Nasarawa should anticipate early morning thunderstorms on Wednesday. Later in the day, thunderstorms with rain are forecast for the FCT, Niger, Nasarawa, Kwara, Kogi, and Plateau States. Similar conditions are predicted for Thursday and Friday, emphasizing the need for vigilance in these densely populated areas.
The Southern region is expected to see cloudy conditions with chances of morning rain over parts of Ondo, Ekiti, and Edo on Wednesday. As the day progresses, isolated thunderstorms and rain are anticipated over a broad spectrum of states including Imo, Enugu, Abia, Ebonyi, Anambra, Ondo, Oyo, Ogun, Ekiti, Edo, Delta, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, and Rivers. This wet weather is set to persist, with a high probability of morning rains over coastal states like Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River on Thursday, extending to most parts of the region through Friday. Lagos is particularly noted for high prospects of continuous rains that may lead to flooding.
NiMet has emphaised several safety guidelines to mitigate potential hazards:Residents are advised that strong winds may precede the rains. Ensure all loose objects around homes and businesses are securely fastened to prevent damage or injury from collision.
“Motorists are strongly urged to avoid driving under heavy rain due to reduced visibility and slippery road surfaces. Flash floods on roads and bridges could disrupt vehicular traffic. Disconnect all electrical appliances from sockets to prevent damage from power surges or lightning strikes.
“Stay away from tall trees, as they pose a risk of falling branches or uprooting during strong winds and heavy downpours. Airline operators are specifically advised to obtain airport-specific weather reports from NiMet for effective flight planning and to avoid operational disruptions”, the agency said.
The agency also stressed the importance of staying informed through continuous weather updates from official NiMet channels.
In response to NiMet’s consistent warnings, some states have already initiated preparedness measures. Kaduna State has cautioned residents in flood-prone areas to relocate, identifying 12 local government areas at risk. Similarly, Benue and Edo State governments are undertaking awareness campaigns and clearing drainages to enhance water flow and minimize flood impact, following recent flood incidents in areas like Mokwa in Niger State and parts of Oyo State.
As the nation enters a period of increased rainfall, adherence to these advisories is crucial for the safety and well-being of all Nigerians.
