The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has raised an alert over looming severe heat stress in Gombe State and 17 other states across Northern Nigeria.
The affected states include Borno, Adamawa, Taraba, Yobe, Bauchi, Jigawa, Kano, Katsina, Kaduna, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, Kogi, Nasarawa, Benue, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
According to NiMet’s weather outlook released on Friday and shared with the News Agency of Nigeria in Gombe on Saturday, temperatures are expected to climb as high as 40 degrees Celsius beginning Saturday, leading to increased thermal discomfort in these regions.
“After three days of rainfall, discomfort levels are set to rise from April 12 due to high temperatures and clear skies.
“Maximum temperatures in the north are reaching up to 40°C; with clear skies and moisture in the air, heat and discomfort will be more intense,” the report stated.
Gayus Musa, the Meteorological Manager for Gombe State, urged residents to adopt preventive measures due to the potential health impacts of the extreme heat.
He warned that the combination of soaring temperatures and high humidity could significantly increase thermal discomfort, advising people to take appropriate precautions.
“I advise residents to stay in well-ventilated areas, wear breathable clothing, drink plenty of water, avoid peak sun hours between 12 pm to 3 pm, and use sun protection.
“Also, let’s always check up on vulnerable persons like our children and the elderly in our communities,” he said.
Musa also called on stakeholders to intensify awareness campaigns on the risks of heat stress and steps that can be taken to mitigate its effects.
The agency’s advisory underscores the importance of remaining alert and prepared during periods of extreme weather for the health and safety of communities.
