The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has urged Nigerians to brace up for increased coldness and reduced sunlight as the country experiences a normal atmospheric process leading to the annual “August Break.”
Mr. Wasiu Adeniyi Ibrahim, Deputy General Manager of Public Weather Services at NiMet’s Central Forecast Office, gave this advice during an interview with Radio Nigeria in Lagos.
Describing the current weather as “strange but normal,” Mr. Ibrahim explained that the period before the August Break is typically marked by heightened cloudiness, little or no rainfall, and lower temperatures due to limited sunlight.
This leads to a noticeable drop in temperatures, especially at night.
Mr. Ibrahim emphasized the need for Nigerians, particularly vulnerable groups like the elderly and children, to be “climate smart” by taking necessary precautions to avoid cold-related illnesses such as flu and cough.
“All we need to do now is to be weather aware and climate smart. Health-wise, there will be cold flu and cough because of the ambient temperature,” he said. “We need to take precautions to ensure this does not affect us, especially the elderly and children. Eating warm food and wearing warm clothing, particularly at night, will help.”
Mr. Ibrahim also advised the public to stay updated on weather conditions by following NiMet’s social media platforms for timely information and guidance.
His remarks came in response to a viral social media alert warning of a prolonged cold spell throughout July.
Confirming the alert, he noted that the current cold and cloudy conditions could persist in line with the approaching August Break, also known as the little dry season.
“I have seen the text circulating in the media about serious cold lasting until August. Those persons are well informed because the August Break is characterized by increased cloudiness, little or no rainfall, and more coldness,” Mr. Ibrahim stated.
He assured Nigerians that while the current weather is unusual for many, it is a normal seasonal pattern, and urged everyone to take simple steps to stay healthy and comfortable during this period.
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