The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecast a continuation of dust haze across the northern part of the country on Monday, warning motorists and residents to exercise caution as visibility is expected to remain low.
In its Daily Weather Outlook, NiMet said moderate dust haze with horizontal visibility of 2–5 kilometres will dominate the morning hours in parts of Kano, Yobe, Jigawa, Gombe, Kebbi, Kaduna and Katsina States, while a slight dust haze is anticipated over Borno, Bauchi, Zamfara, Sokoto, Taraba and Adamawa.
The agency added that the dusty conditions are expected to persist into the afternoon and evening.
For the North Central region, NiMet projected moderate dust haze in the morning, with sunny skies and intermittent clouds expected over Kogi, Benue and Kwara. The cloudy spells are expected to continue throughout the afternoon and evening.
In contrast, the Southern States are expected to experience a mix of cloudiness and sunshine in the morning, followed by isolated thunderstorms and moderate rainfall in parts of Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Bayelsa and Delta States later in the day.
NiMet issued several advisories, urging motorists to drive carefully due to reduced visibility in the North and advising people with respiratory conditions such as asthma to take necessary precautions in dusty areas.
Airline operators were also encouraged to obtain up-to-date flight weather information from the agency to ensure safety.
The agency further advised farmers and outdoor workers to stay informed and adjust their activities in line with daily weather updates, especially as seasonal transitions continue across the country.
“Motorists should drive carefully; dust haze may reduce visibility in the Northern region. Dusty weather is expected over the Northern region; individuals with asthma or respiratory conditions should take necessary precautions.
“Airlines should get detailed NiMet reports for safe flight planning. The public is advised to stay informed and updated on daily weather reports from NiMet for safety and preparedness,” the agency stated.