Dust Storm: Northern Nigeria Braces for Impact—Nimet Warns

By HK Tijjani, Maiduguri

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a weather alert for the following states: Borno, Yobe, Jigawa, Kano, Sokoto, Katsina, Zamfara, Bauchi, Gombe, and northern parts of Adamawa.
 
According to the NiMet, a significant dust plume originating from southern Chad is currently moving towards northern Nigeria, driven by strong winds at 925 hPa. 
 
“Over the next 7-12 hours, these regions can expect dry, dusty winds that may significantly reduce visibility to less than one kilometre,” warned a NiMet spokesperson. 
 
“We advise the public to take necessary precautions, particularly while driving.”
 
NiMet Safety Advisories:
 
Protect Yourself: Wear a nose mask or cloth to minimise dust inhalation.
 
Health Precautions: Individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions should take extra precautions during this period.
 
Stay Hydrated: Keep your skin, eyes, and lips moisturised to prevent dryness caused by dust exposure.
 
For Airlines: NiMet urges airlines to closely monitor weather forecasts to ensure safe and effective flight operations.
 
NiMet says it’ll continue to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as necessary.