Agency forecasts heavy rainfall as rainy season peaks with storms hitting all regions Wednesday.
Abuja, Federal Capital Territory – Nigerians should prepare for a wet Wednesday as the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a comprehensive weather warning for thunderstorms and moderate rainfall across the country. The agency’s Tuesday bulletin covers all three regions, signaling an active weather day ahead on July 9, 2025.
Northern States Brace for Morning Storms
Northern states face an early wake-up call from Mother Nature. Taraba, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Kaduna, and Bauchi residents should expect thunderclaps and steady rainfall to greet them Wednesday morning.
“Northern states such as Taraba, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Kaduna, and Bauchi will experience thunderstorms with light to moderate rain in the morning,” NiMet stated in its Tuesday bulletin.
The rest of the northern region gets a brief reprieve with sunny intervals and scattered clouds before afternoon storms roll in. This pattern marks the height of Nigeria’s rainy season, when dramatic weather swings can transform clear skies into torrential downpours within hours.
For farmers in these regions, the timing presents both opportunity and challenge – crops need the water, but sudden storms can damage ready-to-harvest grains.
Central Region: Calm Before the Storm
Central Nigeria gets a deceptive start to the day. States including Abuja, Niger, and Kogi will enjoy pleasant morning conditions before nature changes course.
“Residents should expect sunny intervals with patches of cloud in the morning, followed by light to moderate rainfall in most parts of the region,” NiMet noted.
Commuters in Abuja should plan accordingly the capital’s notoriously poor drainage means even moderate rainfall can turn major roads into temporary rivers. The morning commute may be smooth, but afternoon travel could face significant delays.
Southern States: All-Day Rainfall Marathon
Southern states face the most persistent weather challenges Wednesday. From Lagos’s bustling mainland to the oil-rich communities of Rivers State, residents should keep umbrellas handy all day.
Ogun, Edo, Osun, Ondo, Imo, Abia, Enugu, Bayelsa, Lagos, Delta, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers will start with overcast skies and light rain that refuses to quit.
NiMet warns that moderate rainfall will continue through afternoon and evening hours. For Lagos residents, this means potential traffic nightmares as the city’s overwhelmed drainage system struggles to cope.
Market traders in places like Onitsha and Port Harcourt should protect their wares, while coastal communities must watch for the double threat of rainfall and high tides.
Safety First: Flood Preparedness
NiMet’s warning about flash floods carries real weight. Nigeria’s urban centers regularly transform into temporary lakes during heavy rainfall, stranding vehicles and forcing pedestrians to wade through knee-deep water.
The agency urges citizens to monitor local conditions closely and avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding. Parents should keep children away from fast-flowing gutters and storm drains that become death traps during heavy rains.
Drivers face particular risks on Nigeria’s roads, where worn surfaces become treacherous when wet. The combination of poor road conditions and aggressive driving makes rainy days especially dangerous for motorists.
Emergency services in major cities typically see increased accident reports during heavy rainfall, making Wednesday a day for extra caution and patience.
By Abiodun Labi
