The Nigerian Meteorological Agency has issued a weather advisory stating that NiMet forecasts thundery weather across the country from Wednesday through Friday, with warnings of possible flooding in several southern states.

The agency, in its latest outlook released on Tuesday, said cloudy conditions and thunderstorms are expected to affect all regions, with varying intensity from light morning showers to more severe afternoon downpours.

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Across northern Nigeria, NiMet indicated that patches of cloud would dominate early hours on Wednesday, with thunderstorms and light rain likely in parts of Taraba and Kebbi states.

As the day progresses, more widespread storms accompanied by moderate rainfall are expected in Borno, Yobe, Bauchi, Sokoto, Katsina, Zamfara, Jigawa, Kano and Kaduna states.

The North-Central region is also set for unsettled conditions, with early morning thunderstorms forecast over the Federal Capital Territory, Nasarawa, Niger and Benue states.

The agency noted that rainfall activity is likely to intensify later in the day.

In southern Nigeria, a cloudy atmosphere is expected, with morning showers in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, Cross River, Abia, Imo, Ebonyi and Akwa Ibom states.

Rainfall is projected to become more consistent and heavier as the day advances.

“During the afternoon or evening hours, thunderstorms accompanied by moderate rains are expected over most parts of the region,” the agency stated, highlighting the likelihood of widespread precipitation.

Thursday’s forecast suggests a similar pattern, with intermittent sunshine in parts of the North-Central region but recurring thunderstorms across northern and southern states.

NiMet added that continuous rainfall is expected across much of the southern belt.

By Friday, the outlook points to partly cloudy skies in the north with renewed thunderstorms in states such as Adamawa, Taraba, Kano and Sokoto, while central Nigeria will again experience a mix of sunshine and storm activity.

The southern region is expected to remain largely cloudy with sustained rainfall.

A significant concern raised in the advisory is the high possibility of flooding in parts of Imo, Abia, Ebonyi, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states during the forecast period.

The warning reflects ongoing seasonal patterns that have seen increased rainfall intensity across southern Nigeria in recent weeks.

NiMet cautioned that strong winds may precede thunderstorms in several areas, increasing the risk of damage to unsecured structures and outdoor installations.

The agency urged residents to take preventive measures, including securing loose objects and avoiding unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall.

“The states with the possibility of flash floods should activate the emergency response system immediately,” NiMet said.

The agency also advised motorists to avoid driving in heavy rain and urged airline operators to obtain location-specific weather reports for safer planning.

The latest forecast aligns with NiMet’s earlier seasonal climate predictions, which indicated above-average rainfall in parts of the country during the mid to late rainy season.

Authorities have repeatedly called for heightened vigilance as urban flooding continues to pose risks in densely populated areas.

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As NiMet forecasts thundery weather nationwide, attention now turns to how state emergency agencies and residents respond to mitigate potential disruptions and safeguard lives and property.