- The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) warns of extreme heat conditions across several states
- Vulnerable states include Ogun, Lagos, Edo, Delta, Kogi, Oyo, Niger, FCT, Rivers, Enugu, Sokoto, and more
- NiMet predicts continued high temperatures with possible slight increases and intensified discomfort due to moisture influx
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a heat stress warning following a surge in temperatures across the country, with several states experiencing extreme heat conditions.
In a report shared on X on Thursday, February 20, NiMet disclosed that as of Wednesday, February 19, maximum temperatures ranged between 38°C and 40°C, with Yelwa recording the highest at 40°C.
According to the agency, multiple cities, including Port Harcourt, Owerri, Enugu, Awka, Bida, Minna, Gusau, Iseyin, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), recorded temperatures of 38°C.
Meanwhile, Sokoto, Kebbi, Lokoja, Makurdi, Abakaliki, Ikom, Jalingo, and Yola experienced slightly higher temperatures of 39°C.
NiMet cautioned that these high temperatures are expected to persist, with the possibility of slight increases in some locations.
Additionally, the anticipated moisture influx reaching far inland into the central states will combine with the high temperatures to heighten discomfort levels.
“Early morning, day, and night temperatures will feel warmer than their real values and create more discomfort,” NiMet warned.
The agency identified several states as particularly vulnerable to the intensifying heat stress.
These include Ogun, Lagos, Ondo, Edo, Delta, Kogi, Oyo, Kwara, Niger, and the FCT.
Others on the list are Bayelsa, Anambra, Imo, Ebonyi, Enugu, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, Adamawa, Kebbi, Osun, Zamfara, Sokoto, and Benue.
NiMet urged residents in these areas to take necessary precautions to minimise the effects of the extreme heat.
The warning comes amid a global trend of rising temperatures.
In 2024, the World Meteorological Organisation confirmed it as the warmest year on record, with global temperatures averaging 1.6°C above pre-industrial levels.
This marked the first recorded instance of surpassing the 1.5°C threshold set by the Paris Agreement.
The year was defined by extreme weather events, including intense heat waves, devastating wildfires, and catastrophic floods, all linked to the escalating impacts of climate change.
As of February 2025, this warming trend continues, with January 2025 recorded as the warmest January globally, despite the typically cooling influence of a La Niña event.
Surviving hot season in Nigeria: Essential tips for staying safe, healthy
In an earlier report, TheRadar shared some surviving tips to stay safe and healthy during the hot weather in Nigeria.
With extreme heat, the risks of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke become real concerns.
Staying hydrated, dressing appropriately for the weather, protecting your skin, adapting your diet, and using cooling accessories are some of the surviving tips to stay safe and healthy during the hot season.
