NiMet Forecasts Three Days of Rain and Thunderstorms Across Nigeria Starting Monday

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a weather advisory forecasting a three-day period of thunderstorms and rainfall across various parts of Nigeria, from Monday, July 21, to Wednesday, July 23, 2025. The agency’s latest weather outlook highlights a mix of sunny, cloudy, and rainy conditions, with potential hazards such as strong winds and lightning accompanying the storms. Residents, travelers, and stakeholders are urged to take precautions to mitigate risks associated with the anticipated weather patterns.

Detailed Weather Forecast

Northern Region

The northern parts of Nigeria will experience varied weather conditions over the three-day period:

• Monday, July 21: The region will see sunny skies with patches of clouds during the morning hours. There is a likelihood of thunderstorms accompanied by moderate rainfall in parts of Taraba, Adamawa, Kebbi, Borno, Yobe, Gombe, Bauchi, Sokoto, and Kaduna. As the day progresses, the afternoon and evening hours are expected to bring thunderstorms with moderate rains to Adamawa, Taraba, Kebbi, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Katsina, Kano, Zamfara, Kaduna, and Yobe.
• Tuesday, July 22: Morning conditions will feature sunny skies with patches of clouds across most northern states. Later in the day, thunderstorms and moderate rains are anticipated in Bauchi, Gombe, Yobe, Jigawa, Adamawa, Taraba, Kano, Katsina, and Kaduna, potentially disrupting outdoor activities.
• Wednesday, July 23: The northern region will experience morning thunderstorms and rainfall in Katsina, Kano, Bauchi, Sokoto, and Taraba. In the afternoon and evening, more thunderstorms are expected in Yobe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Borno, and Kebbi, signaling continued wet conditions.

Central Region

Central Nigeria, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), will see cloudy and rainy conditions throughout the forecast period:

• Monday, July 21: The morning will be cloudy with possible thunderstorms and light rain in parts of Niger State. By the afternoon and evening, thunderstorms with light to moderate rainfall are expected in Plateau, Nasarawa, the FCT, Kogi, Benue, and Niger, potentially affecting visibility and road conditions.
• Tuesday, July 22: Cloudy skies will dominate the morning, with light rain and thunderstorms likely in Plateau, Benue, Nasarawa, Niger, and the FCT. The wet weather is expected to persist into the afternoon, particularly in these areas.
• Wednesday, July 23: The region will remain cloudy in the morning, with moderate rainfall and thunderstorms forecast for the FCT, Plateau, Niger, and Kwara during the afternoon and evening. Residents in these areas should prepare for potentially heavy downpours.

Southern Region

The southern states, including coastal areas, are set to experience significant rainfall, with some areas facing moderate to heavy showers:

• Monday, July 21: Morning rains are expected in Enugu, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom, with cloudy skies prevailing elsewhere in the region. In the afternoon and evening, moderate to heavy rainfall is forecast for Ebonyi, Abia, Edo, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom, raising concerns about potential flooding in low-lying areas.
• Tuesday, July 22: Precipitation will continue in the morning, particularly in Akwa Ibom and Cross River. Heavier showers are expected in the afternoon across Ondo, Imo, Enugu, Anambra, Abia, Edo, Rivers, Cross River, Delta, Akwa Ibom, and Bayelsa, potentially impacting transportation and outdoor activities.
• Wednesday, July 23: Coastal areas, including Cross River, Delta, Akwa Ibom, and Bayelsa, will see morning rains. By the afternoon and evening, moderate to heavy rainfall is expected across the entire southern region, necessitating caution for residents and businesses in flood-prone areas.

Safety and Preparedness Recommendations

NiMet has emphasized the need for caution due to the potential hazards associated with the forecasted weather, particularly strong winds that may precede thunderstorms. These winds could dislodge loose objects, cause tree branches to fall, or lead to structural damage. The agency has provided the following safety recommendations:

• Secure Loose Objects: Residents are advised to secure outdoor items such as furniture, signage, or other objects that could be displaced by strong winds.
• Avoid Driving in Heavy Rain: Motorists should exercise caution and avoid driving during heavy downpours to reduce the risk of accidents caused by reduced visibility or slippery roads.
• Protect Electrical Appliances: To prevent damage from lightning strikes, NiMet recommends disconnecting electrical appliances during thunderstorms.
• Steer Clear of Tall Trees: Individuals should avoid standing near tall or fragile trees during storms to minimize the risk of injury from falling branches.
• Flood Preparedness: Residents in flood-prone areas, particularly in the southern region, should take measures to protect property and ensure safe evacuation routes in case of heavy rainfall.

Special Advisory for Airline Operators

NiMet has urged airline operators to consult the agency’s airport-specific weather reports to ensure safe flight operations. Thunderstorms and strong winds can pose significant risks to aviation, and timely access to accurate weather data is critical for planning and safety.

Staying Informed

To stay updated on the evolving weather conditions, NiMet encourages the public to visit its official website at www.nimet.gov.ng or follow its verified social media platforms for real-time updates. The agency also advises residents to monitor local weather alerts and take necessary precautions to stay safe during this period of inclement weather.

Conclusion

As Nigeria braces for three days of thunderstorms and rainfall starting Monday, July 21, 2025, NiMet’s forecast underscores the importance of preparedness and vigilance. From the sunny yet stormy northern region to the rain-soaked southern states, the weather is expected to impact daily activities, travel, and infrastructure. By following NiMet’s safety recommendations and staying informed, residents can mitigate risks and navigate the challenges posed by the forecasted weather conditions.