Jumoke Olasunkanmi
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued an advisory as temperature hits 40°C in North and 35°C in the South and raised alarm over soaring temperatures, particularly in the North and North Central regions of the country, prompting the issuance of a ‘Heat Stress Warning’ to residents.
In the ‘Heat Stress Warning’ released on Wednesday, NiMet cautioned residents to avoid strenuous physical activities during peak heat hours, typically between 12 noon and 4 pm, and to increase fluid intake to mitigate the risk of heatstroke, sunstroke, and heat exhaustion.
States such as Niger, Nasarawa, Lagos, and Ogun, where the likelihood of sunstroke and heatstroke is significantly elevated, have been categorized as ‘extremely dangerous’ by the agency.
NiMet further emphasized that the prevailing weather conditions may heighten the susceptibility to certain health conditions, such as meningitis.
States including Sokoto, Jigawa, Yobe, and Borno have been identified as highly conducive environments for a potential meningitis outbreak, warranting heightened vigilance.
As temperatures continue to rise, NiMet urges residents in affected regions to adhere to safety precautions and remain vigilant against the adverse health effects associated with the intense heatwave.
