The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned Nigerians to prepare for a weather cocktail of intense dust haze and isolated thunderstorms as the 2026 dry season tightens its grip.
Northern & Central Regions: The Dust is Coming
In a weather outlook released on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, the agency predicted persistent sunny and hazy skies across the Northern region from Wednesday through Friday. By Friday afternoon, the North is expected to experience a significant increase in suspended dust particles, leading to reduced visibility. The Central region will similarly remain under the cover of sunny and hazy conditions throughout the period.
In a weather outlook released on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, the agency predicted persistent sunny and hazy skies across the Northern region from Wednesday through Friday. By Friday afternoon, the North is expected to experience a significant increase in suspended dust particles, leading to reduced visibility. The Central region will similarly remain under the cover of sunny and hazy conditions throughout the period.
Southern Region: Sunshine Mixed with Storms
While the North remains dry, the South is bracing for moisture-driven activity. NiMet anticipates sunny skies with patches of clouds, but with a high probability of isolated thunderstorms and light rain.
While the North remains dry, the South is bracing for moisture-driven activity. NiMet anticipates sunny skies with patches of clouds, but with a high probability of isolated thunderstorms and light rain.
- Wednesday: Coastal areas including Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River states are likely to see light rains late in the day.
- Thursday: Early morning thunderstorms are expected in Ogun, Lagos, Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River. Later in the day, the storms will spread to include Ondo, Imo, and Delta states.
- Friday: A cloudy start will give way to sunny intervals, with afternoon thunderstorms predicted for Anambra, Imo, Abia, Edo, and the entire Niger Delta belt.
Health and Safety Advisory
NiMet has issued a stern warning for citizens with respiratory sensitivities. “Dust particles are in suspension over the North Central region; the public should take necessary precautions,” the agency stated. People with asthma and other respiratory conditions are advised to wear masks and limit outdoor exposure.
NiMet has issued a stern warning for citizens with respiratory sensitivities. “Dust particles are in suspension over the North Central region; the public should take necessary precautions,” the agency stated. People with asthma and other respiratory conditions are advised to wear masks and limit outdoor exposure.
Operational Warnings for Drivers and Pilots
- Aviation: Airline operators are urged to strictly obtain airport-specific weather reports from NiMet to avoid flight disruptions due to low visibility or sudden storms.
- Road Safety: Commuters in the South are advised to drive with extreme caution during rainfall, as early-year showers often create slippery road conditions and poor visibility.
Stay updated on changing conditions by visiting the official NiMet website.