The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecasted a sustained heatwave across the country in the coming days.
In its weather forecast published on Wednesday, the agency stated that the maximum temperatures across the country ranged from 38°C to 40°C.
NiMet stated that air temperatures are likely to remain within this range, with a slight increase expected in certain areas.
“Maximum temperature reports across the country as at Wednesday 19th February were mostly between 38 – 40℃,” the forecast reads.
“The temperature was at 38℃ in Port Harcourt, Owerri, Enugu, Awka, Bida, Minna, Gusau, Iseyin and the FCT.
“It was 39℃ in Sokoto, Kebbi, Lokoja, Makurdi, Abakaliki, Ikom, Jalingo and Yola. While it was 40℃ in Yelwa.”
NiMet advised the public to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, seek shelter in cool or air-conditioned spaces, wear light and breathable clothing, and ensure infants are kept in well-ventilated areas.
“Early morning, day and night temperatures will feel warmer than their real values and create more discomfort,” the agency said.
It noted that “moisture influx and high temperatures will increase the discomfort levels across the country”.
The agency noted that regions most likely to be affected include parts of Ogun, Lagos, Ondo, Edo, Delta, Kogi, Oyo, Kwara, Niger, the FCT, and Bayelsa.
Other affected states include Anambra, Imo, Ebonyi, Enugu, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, Adamawa, Kebbi, Osun, Zamfara, Sokoto, and Benue.