The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned that large parts of Nigeria should prepare for a mix of dust haze and thunderstorms from Monday through Wednesday, as shifting seasonal weather brings unstable skies across the country.
According to NiMet’s update, northern states, including areas in the far north, are likely to be blanketed by dust haze, with visibility dropping sharply in some locations. In several places, the haze may reduce horizontal visibility to less than 1,000 metres, a condition that could endanger motorists and disrupt road and air travel.
In contrast, central and southern zones of the country might see weather shift from hazy skies to rainfall: afternoon or evening thunderstorms, accompanied by cloud cover and intermittent rain, are expected in parts of the south-south and coastal states. Cities such as those in the south and southwest are among those likely to experience rainfall and lightning in the forecast period.
NiMet forewarns that this weather mix: dry, dust-laden air colliding with moist, warm air masses from the coast, is a hallmark of seasonal transition in the West African region. The agency urges drivers to use fog lights and reduce speed during poor visibility, while airline operators and transport agencies are advised to consult updated forecasts before planning flights or long-distance travel.
Health professionals have also sounded alarms: dust haze often carries fine particles (PM2.5 and PM10) that can penetrate deep into the lungs, aggravating respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis, irritating eyes and skin, and increasing the risk of other lung-related illnesses.
Beyond immediate safety and health concerns, the impending dust and rain carry broader environmental and economic consequences. Dust can settle on soil and water bodies, degrade soil fertility and contaminate water, potentially affecting agriculture, water supply, and even hydropower generation. Infrastructure and buildings might suffer increased wear and tear, and transportation disruptions could interrupt the flow of goods and people.
According to NiMet’s outlook, this atmospheric instability is a clear sign that the seasonal shift, often referred to as the start of the dry-dusty phase of the year is underway. Northern Nigerians are being urged to brace for haze-induced poor visibility, while southern and coastal dwellers should expect rain and possible flooding in low-lying areas.
While NiMet continues to monitor changing conditions, the agency recommends Nigerians stay tuned to daily weather updates, avoid unnecessary travel under poor visibility, and take health precautions, especially vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and people with chronic respiratory conditions.
