NiMet alerts 15 states, FCT over severe thunderstorms, strong winds

News, Weather

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a weather alert warning of active severe thunderstorms, moderate rainfall and strong winds across parts of several states in northern and central Nigeria.

The alert, issued at 12:00 p.m. local time on Sunday, September 27, 2026, is valid until 6:00 p.m. the same day.

NiMet said severe thunderstorm cells were being observed over parts of Borno, Adamawa, Bauchi, Plateau and Taraba states.

Advertisement

The agency said the thunderstorm system was expected to propagate westward within the next one to six hours, affecting parts of Yobe, Jigawa, Kano, Katsina, Gombe, Bauchi, Taraba, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Benue, Plateau, Niger and the Federal Capital Territory.

NiMet warned that strong winds could precede rainfall and potentially displace loose objects, while moderate rainfall, thunderstorms and lightning were expected in affected areas.

The agency also warned of possible flash flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas, falling tree branches, damage to weak structures, power disruptions and electrical hazards.

It advised motorists to exercise caution during rainfall because of reduced visibility and slippery roads, and to avoid driving through flooded areas.

NiMet urged residents to secure loose outdoor objects, stay away from tall trees and weak structures, and disconnect electrical appliances from sockets during thunderstorms.

The agency also advised farmers to refrain from applying fertilisers and pesticides immediately before the rains to avoid leaching of nutrients.

Airline operators were advised to obtain airport-specific weather reports from NiMet for effective flight planning.

The agency urged the public to continue monitoring official NiMet weather updates and advisories.