The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has announced that there will be a further deterioration of horizontal visibility over most parts of the country in coming days.
NiMet disclosed this in a weather alert by Mrs Olaniyan Olumide, Assistant General Manager, NiMet’s Central Forecast Office, on Thursday, February 14, 2019 in Abuja.
Olumide said that visibility had slightly improved over the northern parts of the country due to the southward propagation of dust into the Central and the Southern cities.
She explained that the dust plume currently being observed over the southern Chad and Niger Republic was expected to propagate into the country in the next few hours.
“A further deterioration of the horizontal visibilities to values below one to two kilometres over the northern parts of the country with possibilities of visibility less than 1000m (1km), especially over the North-eastern cities is expected.
“The horizontal visibility over the central states in dust haze condition is still poor with visibility ranging from one to five kilometres.
“Some cities over these regions are still expected to have visibility less than 1000m (1Km) with no significant change expected in coming days over the region,” she said.
Olumide further disclosed that the visibility over the southern region was currently ranging between 3000m to 5000m in hazy condition.
She added that poorer visibility had been reported over the coast and places close to water bodies, especially in the early morning due to fog with no significant change to be expected in coming days.
“Road users are still advised to exercise caution and avoid over speeding, especially during early morning period when horizontal visibility is impaired by fog, mist or dust haze.
“Flight disruptions are also likely during this period, especially over the North eastern airports, she said.
Olumide also warned on the health effect of the weather, while calling for protection against the adverse weather.
“Dust particles are well known for their potential to cause respiratory and cardiovascular health problems. These can also irritate eyes, throat and skin.
“People allergic to dust are advised to take necessary precautions and seek medical advice if experiencing increased symptoms,” she said.
By Sumaila Ogbaje
