NiMet predicts thunderstorms, strong winds in some parts of Nigeria

Sunday, March, 21 2026 - The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecast a mix of sunshine, cloud cover, and thunderstorms across the country from Sunday through Tuesday.

In its weather outlook released in Abuja, the agency predicted predominantly sunny conditions over the northern region throughout the period.

According to NiMet, “sunny skies are expected over the northern region throughout the forecast period.”

For the North Central zone, the agency said “sunny skies with patches of clouds are expected with prospects of isolated thunderstorms with or without rain” over parts of Kogi, Niger, the Federal Capital Territory, Nasarawa, and Kwara states.

Across the southern region, NiMet stated that “cloudy conditions with intervals of sunshine are anticipated,” with “prospects of isolated thunderstorms accompanied by light rain” over Lagos, Ondo, Ogun, Delta, and Cross River states during the morning.

It added that “later in the day, thunderstorms with moderate rain are expected” across a wide stretch of southern states, including Ekiti, Osun, Edo, Imo, Enugu, Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom.

Looking ahead to Monday, the agency noted that “sunny skies are anticipated over the northern region,” with chances of isolated thunderstorms in parts of southern Taraba.

For the North Central region, it said there would be “sunny skies with patches of clouds,” alongside “chances of thunderstorms accompanied by light rain” in parts of Kogi and Nasarawa in the morning, and “isolated thunderstorms with moderate rain” later in parts of Benue.

In the South, NiMet maintained that “cloudy conditions with intervals of sunshine are anticipated,” with morning thunderstorms in several states, followed by “thunderstorms with moderate rain” later in the day across a broader area.

By Tuesday, the agency projected that “sunny skies are anticipated over the northern region,” while the North Central zone would see “sunny skies with patches of clouds” in the morning and “isolated thunderstorms with light rain” later in parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Plateau, and Niger states.

In the southern region, NiMet said “cloudy conditions with intervals of sunshine are anticipated,” with morning thunderstorms in coastal states and “thunderstorms with moderate rain” expected later in parts of Ondo, Edo, Imo, Bayelsa, and Delta.

The agency warned that “strong winds may precede thunderstorms in areas where they are likely to occur,” urging the public to take precautions.

It further advised residents to secure loose items, noting that “driving under heavy rain should be avoided,” and to “stay away from tall trees to avoid impact from falling branches and broken trees.”

NiMet also cautioned that “temperatures are expected to remain high, causing thermal discomfort,” advising people to wear breathable clothing, stay hydrated, and remain in well-ventilated environments.

“Airline operators are advised to obtain airport-specific weather reports flight documentation from NiMet for effective operational planning,” the agency added.