Sunday Weather Outlook: NiMet Predicts Moderate Rains Across North Central States

Sunday Weather Outlook: NiMet Predicts Moderate Rains Across North Central States

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by moderate rainfall across several North Central states, including the Federal Capital Territory, Kwara, Benue, Plateau, Kogi, Niger and Nasarawa, later on Sunday.

In its weather outlook for April 19, 2026, the agency said the region would experience a relatively calm and cloudy morning, with sunshine expected in intervals across parts of the zone.

However, it warned that the weather pattern would change as the day progresses, with thunderstorms likely to develop in the afternoon and evening hours.

“Thunderstorms with moderate rains are expected over Kwara, Benue, Plateau, Kogi, Niger, Nasarawa and the FCT,” the agency stated, advising residents to plan outdoor activities early in the day.

According to NiMet, there is also a slight chance of early morning thunderstorms in parts of Benue, Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger, Kwara and the FCT, although these are expected to be isolated.

The agency explained that while the morning may appear calm and warm, atmospheric conditions later in the day could trigger more widespread storm activity, bringing rainfall, lightning and gusty winds.

Beyond the North Central region, NiMet noted that northern states would begin the day with sunny skies before isolated thunderstorms develop later in the day, particularly in parts of Kaduna, Adamawa and Taraba.

In the southern part of the country, cloudy conditions are expected in the morning, with increasing thunderstorm activity in the afternoon and evening across states such as Oyo, Enugu, Rivers, Delta and Cross River.

The agency issued safety advisories, warning that strong winds could precede the storms and urging residents to secure loose objects.

Motorists were also cautioned to drive carefully during rainfall due to reduced visibility and slippery road conditions, while people living in flood-prone areas were advised to remain alert.

NiMet further warned of possible lightning strikes during thunderstorms and advised the public to seek shelter when necessary.

Airline operators were equally urged to obtain location-specific weather reports from the agency to ensure safe flight operations.

The forecast is part of ongoing efforts by the agency to keep Nigerians informed and prepared as seasonal weather patterns continue to evolve.