The Nigerian Meteorological Agency has issued a heat stress warning for Gombe State and 17 other northern states as temperatures are forecasted to climb as high as 40°C.
This alert was included in NiMet’s latest weather outlook released on Friday.
The document, which was made available to the News Agency of Nigeria in Gombe on Saturday, was signed by the Meteorological Manager for Gombe State, Gayus Musa.
According to the agency, the high temperatures, beginning Saturday, will lead to intense thermal discomfort in the affected regions.
“After three days of rainfall, discomfort levels are set to rise from April 12 due to high temperatures and clear skies.
“Maximum temperatures in the north are reaching up to 40°C; with clear skies and moisture in the air, heat and discomfort will be more intense,” NiMet stated.
The states listed in the advisory include Borno, Adamawa, Taraba, Yobe, Bauchi, Jigawa, Kano, Katsina, Kaduna, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, Kogi, Nasarawa, Benue, and the Federal Capital Territory.
Musa advised residents of Gombe to brace for the extreme weather conditions, emphasizing the health risks associated with high temperatures and humidity.
“I advise residents to stay in well-ventilated areas, wear breathable clothing, drink plenty of water, avoid peak sun hours between 12 pm to 3 pm, and use sun protection.
“Also, let’s always check up on vulnerable persons like our children and the elderly in our communities,” he said.
He further urged the public and relevant stakeholders to intensify efforts in creating awareness around the dangers of heat stress and the steps that can be taken to mitigate its effects.
“Extreme heat has significant health implications,” Musa warned. “I urge everyone to take proactive measures, avoid excessive sun exposure, and seek cooler environments while staying hydrated and avoiding strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day.”
