The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) has warned of possible bird strike incidents, flight delays, and cancellations as the harmattan season begins in most parts of the country. 

According to NiMET, bird strike incidents are possible due to the influx of migratory birds to the country from other parts of the world. 

The Director-General of NiMET, Prof. Mansur Matazu, stated this on Wednesday in its forecast circular sent to journalists. 

“Following weather report of observed movement of dust plumes from the source region (Niger and Chad ) where dust-haze and haziness in relatively low, visibility values are expected into the county within the next 24 hours. The Nigerian Meteorological Agency alerts the public of the possible commencement of the dry season, otherwise called the harmattan season, in most parts of the north.

“The climate of Nigeria is characterized by two distinct seasons; the rainy season and the dry season. The rainy season usually lasts between late February and Early November in the South with a little break between late July and Mid-August, while it lasts between late May to early Mid October in the North.

“Beyond this period, between the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the next rainy season is the dry season which is what is unfolding”, the statement reads.

NiMET said airline operators should plan adequately for aviation fuel as the amount of fuel consumed by the aircraft would be more during this period.