The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) has said that the current excessive heat being experienced in the country will persist.
While speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Thursday, NiMet’s Director of Weather Forecast Services, Vincent Weli said the development might lead to a declaration of a state of emergency.
“I have noted before now that in those states that are affected, there’s a need for a state of emergency to be declared so that people can stay out of work within this period, especially when the sun is very high.”
“A state of emergency should be declared in those states,” he added. “Because that is where we are tending to and if a state of emergency is declared, then people should be excused from doing certain extreme activities that will make them sweat.”
Meanwhile, in its weather and climate update posted on its weather and climate update posted on its official X page yesterday, the agency outlined the weather’s implications and guided the public on how to manage the situation.
“Air temperatures hit 41°C over the North and 39°C over the South with model Projections indicating temperatures to remain high in the coming days,” it said.
NIMET identified dehydration as one of the fallouts of the extreme weather conditions, adding that this could cause fainting, chicken pox disease, measles, heat rash, weakness of the body, slight fever, dry lips; heat-related illnesses; respiratory issues; and increased vulnerability to chronic conditions.
On remedies, NIMET recommended adequate fluid intake.
“Seek shade, use fans, and wear light, breathable clothing to reduce exposure to high temperatures.
“Avoid strenuous physical activity during peak heat hours (Stay indoors as much as possible between 12:00 noon and 4:00 pm). Air temperatures hit 41°C over the North and 39°C over the South with model projections indicating temperatures to remain high in the coming days.” It said.