As Nigeria shifts from the rainy season to the dry period, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has cautioned citizens to brace for soaring temperatures, intense heat discomfort, heavy dust, and potential water shortages.
In a post shared via X on Friday, October 23, 2026, the agency explained that reduced rainfall, less cloud cover and shifting wind patterns could allow more sunlight to heat the Earth’s surface, resulting in hotter days.
NiMet also noted that high humidity could worsen heat discomfort by limiting the body’s ability to cool itself through sweating.
The agency identified dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke among the health risks associated with excessive heat, warning that prolonged exposure could affect people’s health and productivity.
According to NiMet, heat exhaustion may cause “unusual weakness, dizziness, headaches, nausea, and heavy sweating”.
It also warned that dust and haze could irritate the eyes and respiratory tract, causing coughing, sneezing and breathing difficulties, particularly among people living with asthma and other respiratory conditions.
The agency added that high temperatures could affect concentration, physical performance and work efficiency, especially among farmers, outdoor workers, students and commuters.
NiMet further cautioned that declining rainfall in some areas could gradually affect water availability for households, agriculture and livestock.
To reduce heat-related risks, the agency advised Nigerians to drink water regularly, wear lightweight and breathable clothing, and limit prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, particularly during the hottest hours of the day. It also recommended scheduling strenuous outdoor activities for cooler periods.
For the agricultural sector, NiMet urged farmers to adjust their activities to cooler hours, conserve soil moisture through mulching and monitor crop water requirements.
Livestock owners were advised to provide sufficient drinking water, shade and ventilation for their animals.
The agency also called on fish farmers to monitor pond water temperatures and dissolved oxygen levels, maintain adequate aeration and take appropriate measures to reduce heat-related stress and fish mortality.
NiMet urged schools and workplaces to ensure adequate ventilation, provide drinking water and shaded rest areas, and allow regular breaks during hot conditions.
It further encouraged health authorities to strengthen awareness of heat-related illnesses, with particular attention to children, older adults, people with existing health vulnerabilities and outdoor workers.
At the community level, the agency recommended tree planting, protecting water sources and developing shaded public spaces to reduce exposure to excessive heat.
The agency urged all sectors to incorporate heat-risk management into their operational plans to protect people, infrastructure, livelihoods and essential services.
NiMet advised Nigerians to follow its official weather updates and advisories throughout the seasonal transition, urging the public to prepare for the changing conditions and take appropriate steps to stay safe.
What You Should Know
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency has alerted the public to prepare for climatic shifts associated with the arrival of the dry season, highlighting the health and lifestyle challenges that come with extreme weather.
- Positive Impact: Early awareness allows individuals, farmers, and businesses to plan ahead, adopt preventive health measures, and optimize water and energy conservation.
- Potential Concerns: Excessive heat and dust can trigger dehydration, respiratory issues like asthma, and heat exhaustion, while declining rainfall may stress agricultural yields and household water availability.
