By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Reporter
HEAVY RAINFALL and strong winds will sweep across Nigeria this weekend, with meteorologists urging citizens to brace for a turbulent three-day weather event.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a high-impact forecast bulletin warning of widespread downpours, flash flooding, and damaging winds from Friday through Sunday.
The southern states are first in line for severe weather, with Ogun, Oyo, and Osun expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall on Friday.
Downpours will also drench Lagos, Ondo, and Ekiti, while Edo, Delta, and Imo complete the high-risk zone for the day. NiMet warns that rainfall in some areas could exceed 50mm within 24 hours.
Cross River and Akwa Ibom are forecast to bear the brunt of Saturday’s conditions, facing the most intense combination of heavy rainfall and strong winds.
Bayelsa and Rivers states are also flagged as high-risk areas as the weather system intensifies over the southeast.
Further inland, low to moderate rainfall will cover parts of Niger, Kwara, and the Federal Capital Territory.
Plateau, Adamawa, and Kaduna are likely to see lighter showers, with rain also anticipated in Nasarawa, Kogi, and Benue.
By Sunday, although the weather system begins to weaken, flood threats persist in Osun, Ekiti, Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos.
The alert remains in place for Ondo, Imo, and Anambra, where conditions could still pose risks.
Northern states face a different challenge altogether. From Friday, strong surface winds exceeding 30 knots are expected in Jigawa and Yobe. Gusty conditions will follow in Borno, Bauchi, and Niger, with Kwara, Kogi, and Benue also within the wind belt.
The intensity of these gusts could lead to property damage and disrupt air and road travel. Airlines have already been notified of potential turbulence.
Residents across riverine communities are advised to monitor water levels and remain vigilant.
Flash floods may develop quickly, especially in areas where the rainfall coincides with high winds. Outdoor items should be secured to prevent hazards from airborne debris.
State governments are mobilising emergency response teams.
Temporary shelters are being set up, and residents are encouraged to avoid non-essential travel during peak storm hours.
NiMet emphasises that the situation remains dynamic and will provide real-time updates as required.
While the system is expected to gradually lose strength by Sunday evening, lingering weather effects may stretch into Monday.
All citizens are advised to stay weather-aware, heed safety advisories, and never attempt to navigate flooded roads.
The national outlook between April 11 and 13 reflects stark regional contrasts. Southern states must prepare for water-related disruptions, while the north braces for destructive winds.
Vigilance and preparedness remain key as the nation navigates this hazardous spell of weather.
