Predicts Increase in Malaria, Meningitis Cases
- Safiu Kehinde
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned Nigerians of hot weather and thermal discomfort across the country in the month of April.
NiMet gave the warning in a post on its official X handle on Tuesday.
The central and northern states, according to the agency, are at higher risk of heat exhaustion & heatstroke, while the south will also experience heat stress.
NiMet predicted 38°C to 42°C temperature outlook in North, 36°C to 40°C across the middle belt, and 32°C to 36°C in the South.
The agency explained that temperatures will be warmer than average along the coast and slightly above normal in the central and northern states.
On rainfall forecast for the month, NiMet predicted
300 – 400mm rainfall across Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Imo, Anambra, and Cross River.
Other southern states are to expect 200 – 300mm rainfall while central states are pegged at 100 – 200mm.
In contrast, Northern states are to experience light rainfall as low as 0 – 50mm.
Meanwhile, the agency gave key warnings and health alerts which include increased malaria risk in the south & parts of Kwara, Kogi, and Benue due to higher mosquito activity; Meningitis alert for the extreme north, with conditions favourable for outbreaks; and Heat-related illnesses (heat exhaustion, heatstroke) are expected in central & northern regions.
NiMet urged Nigerians to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged sun exposure.
It also advised Nigerians to use mosquito nets and repellents while also following health and weather advisories.