The Nigerian Meteorological Agency has alerted the public of the possible commencement of the dry season otherwise called the harmattan season in most parts of the north since the beginning of this week following weather report of observed movement of dust plumes from the source region (Niger and Chad) where dust-haze and haziness, in relatively low visibility values are expected into the county.
A release issued by NiMet on Tuesday indicated that as a matter of hours there were good prospects of dust haze (in moderate horizontal visibility, 2000m – 5000m) over Maiduguri, Yobe, Katsina, Kano, Kaduna, Gombe, Bauchi and Jigawa States, while other northern states (including North-central) could report sunny & hazy (visibility of 5–7km). It is expected that this weather condition would persist for the next three days and be harbinger to the full Harmattan season that would end next year.
Like in other years, these weather changes will affect fight operations, which would include flight cancelations and delays.
NiMET in a statement said, “The dry season is usually a period of no rainfall in the North and a period of little or no rainfall in the South. It is characterized by dust particles, harmattan cold, especially at night, high day-time temperature values, fog occurrences, hazy condition and associated health related risks such as meningitis, respiratory illnesses and more.
“As the dry season begins, NiMet advises stakeholders and indeed the general public that places where visibility is impaired by dust haze, motorists should drive cautiously. People with respiratory issues should apply necessary caution, especially for out-door activities.
“Airline operators are also advised to get updated weather reports from NiMet offices for effective planning of their operations, stressing that with the warmer temperatures, there are higher chances of clear air turbulence,” the agency said.
NiMET further explained that hot weather result in aircraft taxing longer distance on the runway to generate enough lift for flight take-off. This increases the fuel consumption and requires adequate planning by operators.
It also stated that during the dry season, there could be increased chances of bird strike due to influx of migratory birds. This constitutes a hazard to flight operations. Motorists are also advised to adhere to recommended tyre pressure by the manufacturers especially during the hot days to safeguard against tyre burst.
NiMET also observed that with reduced visibilities, flight delays or cancellations, in compliance with safety regulations might not be unexpected.
“The climate of Nigeria is characterized by two distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The rainy season usually last between late February and Early November in the South with a little break between late July and Mid-August, while it lasts between late May to early Mid October in the North. Beyond this period, between the end of rainy season and the beginning of the next rainy season is the dry season, which is what is unfolding. However, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency assures the public that it will keep track of the changes in weather and provide updates when necessary,” the agency said.
Meanwhile, NiMET has said that its forecasts on flooding were ignored by most state governments acro
