May 14, (THEWILL) – Following observed thundercloud activities in the northeastern part of the country, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has alerted the public on possible heavy rainfall activities in the coming days in some states in the northern part of the country.
According to a release issued by the General Manager/Public Affairs, NiMet, Muntari Yusuf Ibrahim, “Thunderstorm cells are currently observed over the northern parts of the country including Borno, Taraba, Gombe, Bauchi and Kano. These are expected to propagate westward to give squally thunderstorms to some cities.”
The document further revealed that the current thunderstorm cells are expected to propagate easterly to give thunderstorms accompanied by squalls to cities in Plateau, FCT, Nasarawa, Jigawa, Adamawa, Yobe, Borno, Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano and Katsina States in the next 2-6 hours.
NiMet further advised that, for areas where thunderstorms are expected, strong winds are likely to precede the rains and as such, trees, electric poles, unsecured objects and weak buildings may be felled.
The agency, therefore, advised the public to be cautious and stay indoors, especially during heavy rainfall to avoid being struck by lightning.
NiMet equally advised all airline operators to avail themselves of weather reports periodically from NiMet for effective planning in their operations.
It also noted that moderate to heavy rainfall could lead to flash floods, hence the public is advised to take necessary caution.
“Disaster risk managers, agencies and individuals should be proactive to avert loss of lives and property during the rainy season.
“The Central Forecast Office (CFO) in NiMet will continue to monitor the weather and provide updates when necessary,” the aviation agency assured.
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
