The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a warning about impending heat stress that may affect several parts of the country.

In a statement accompanied by a pictorial representation of the country’s map, NiMet highlighted five different colors indicating varying degrees of heat stress. Particularly, states like Kano, Gombe, Sokoto, Yobe, and others in the north were singled out for extreme danger due to the harsh weather conditions, which could lead to sunstroke.

Residents in Kaduna, Kwara, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Niger, Kogi, and other states were advised to prepare for the heat stress, as it could result in muscle cramps, heatstroke, and heat exhaustion.

Additionally, caution was urged for those in Ado-Ekiti, Akwa-Ibom, Ondo, and Osun, where the weather conditions could also lead to similar health risks.

NiMet specified that the forecast was valid for Friday, April 5th, expressing hope that rainfall in some parts of the south might temporarily reduce the temperatures. The agency emphasized that heat stress results from various factors including humidity, sunlight, wind, hydration, clothing, and physical fitness.

The statement further advised the public to take precautionary measures such as drinking plenty of water, seeking air-conditioned environments for cooling off, avoiding leaving children in closed vehicles, wearing hats and sunshades when outdoors, and ensuring infants are well-aerated and hydrated.

Moreover, NiMet recommended wearing light, breathable clothing to mitigate the effects of high temperatures and reducing strenuous physical activity during peak heat hours, typically between 12:00 noon and 4:00 PM.