NiMet Alerts Public on Rising Dust Haze, Advises Safety

NiMet Alerts Public on Rising Dust Haze, Advises Safety

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a weather advisory warning the public of increasing dust haze across the Northern, North Central, and Inland states of the South, urging citizens to take necessary precautions.

According to the outlook released on Sunday, slight to moderate dust haze is expected in the Northern and North Central regions on Monday, February 23, with horizontal visibility ranging between 2 and 5 kilometres.

The Southern region will experience a cloudy atmosphere with intervals of sunshine, alongside chances of morning and afternoon thunderstorms over states including Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Cross River, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom.

The agency highlighted that the dust particles in suspension could pose health risks, particularly for individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions.

“People with asthmatic health conditions and other respiratory issues should be cautious of the weather condition,” NiMet advised.

Drivers are also urged to exercise caution during rainy periods, while airline operators are instructed to consult airport-specific weather reports to ensure safe flight operations.

“Airline operators are advised to get airport-specific weather reports (flight documentation) from NiMet for effective planning in their operations,” the advisory added.

Residents are encouraged to stay updated with ongoing weather developments through NiMet’s official channels.

“Residents are advised to stay informed through weather updates from NiMet. Visit our website [www.nimet.gov.ng,”](http://www.nimet.gov.ng,”) the agency stated.

The weather outlook further indicated that dust haze will intensify by Wednesday, February 25, across the Northern and North Central regions, while southern states will continue to experience intermittent thunderstorms with light rains.