Deputy General Manager of Public Weather Services at NiMet, Dr. Ibrahim Wasiu, has issued a warning on dust haze and shifting weather patterns affecting the country, highlighting potential health and safety risks for the public.
Speaking in an interview with ARISE News on Sunday, Dr. Wasiu explained the nature of the phenomenon and outlined the atmospheric dynamics behind the forecast and the precautions citizens should take.
“Dust haze is a weather phenomenon that comes over the Sahara in the region, and when we notice that such a plume is being raised, we quickly notify the public so that they can be well informed and plan their activities. That is why every day you see NiMet giving three-day weather forecasts ahead to let the public know what is ahead of them weather-wise.”
He noted that the dust haze currently in circulation is part of the Amartan season: “When we notice that there’s dust particles in suspension, sometimes it reduces visibility below the minimum for the aviation sector.
“We are letting airport users also know this so that they can plan and schedule their flight operations. And for the public too, the same. This could affect their health, their activities, and even transport. Some of the socio-economic implications are also part of what we give to the public so that they can plan their day and activities.”
Wasiu identified the groups most vulnerable to the effects of dust haze: “Experience and studies have shown that children below five years, the elderly, and people with respiratory ailments like asthma are more vulnerable. They should spend less time outside and take necessary precautions so that the impact of exposure is minimal.”
He also addressed the implications for road and air transport, following recent incidents such as the boat capsizing in Jigawa: “Early in the morning, we usually have what is called fog where visibility can be very poor. Road users are advised to take necessary precautions when traveling.
“Aviation users operate in a more organized system, where before any flight take-off, they receive flight briefings with necessary information. Poor visibility can lead to delays or cancellations to ensure safety. Safety comes first in aviation.”
On longer-term weather shifts, Dr. Wasiu warned of the impacts of climate variability: “What we are seeing now is climate variability and change. Before now, December and January had predictable patterns, but now we see more heat when it is supposed to be cold. This is climate change. The implication is that cool will now be colder, hot will now be hotter, and weather patterns will become erratic. Even though there are natural drivers, human activities such as the release of greenhouse gases, burning of fossil fuels, and deforestation contribute significantly to these shifts. This is a global phenomenon, not only Nigeria.”
Wasiu emphasised NiMet’s ongoing efforts to educate the public: “NiMet has a responsibility to provide timely and accurate weather and climate information. We engage with the public, providing seasonal climate predictions and guidance to help mitigate the impact of extreme weather events. We encourage everyone to remain informed and take precautions during periods of dust haze and other extreme weather events.”
Boluwatife Enome
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