NiMet Issues Heat Alert In 12 States Over Rising Temperature

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), has issued a nationwide alert, especially in 12 states over rising temperatures, warning that the conditions could trigger heat stress.

The states involved listed by NiMet include Niger, Kebbi, Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, Kano, Yobe, Jigawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Borno, and Adamawa States.

NiMet in an advisory released on its website, said increasing temperatures across Nigeria may pose health risks, particularly in these northern states.

The heat index projections indicate critical heat levels across parts of the North, Central, and Southern regions of Nigeria. The temperature ranges are Northern states: 40 – 45°C, Central states: 35 – 38°C and Southern states: 33 – 35°C.

The advisory further stated that other states not listed are likely to experience the effects of the heat, noting that other inland areas in southern states could be affected.

NiMet urged residents to take precautionary measures to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.

The agency said the presence of fine dust particles over parts of the northern states, combined with extreme heat, would increase health risks such as heat exhaustion, heat stroke and possible meningitis outbreaks.