NIMET Predicts Normal Rainfall For Nigeria In 2018

Flooded street in Lagos after rainfall (photo credit: Yokebay)

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has predicted that Nigeria would experience normal rain fall in the year 2018.

According to the agency, the rainy season may set in earlier than expected, but the volume of rain would be normal and the rains would cease at the appropriate time.

It however added that cases of flash floods might be experienced in certain regions at the peak of the rainy season.

The Director-General, NiMet, Prof. Sani Machi, disclosed this during the public presentation of the agency’s 2018 SRP.

“It is necessary to state that the expected normal rainfall in parts of the country does not rule out the possibility of isolated flash floods due to high intensity rainfall at the peak of the season, especially in places that are naturally prone to flooding.

“It is also important to note that in every season, dry spells occur and in certain cases, it leads to crop losses,” he said.

He also added: “farmers around Sokoto, Katsina, Yobe, Zamfara, Kebbi, Jigawa, Kano and Borno are advised to source for early maturing and drought resistant varieties of seed to avoid waste of resources.

“The potential moisture availability, during the onset period will not be sufficient for plant growth and development. Early cessation in areas such as Jos, Ibi, and Ilorin are likely to create water stress, therefore there is need to supplement with irrigation”.

Naija News learnt the 2018 prediction bulletin was unveiled on behalf of the federal government in Abuja by the Minister of State for Aviation, Hadi Sirika, who stated that this year’s SRP presentation on the theme: “Climate Prediction for Sustainable Development in Nigeria”, is quite relevant because of the critical role of Climate Resilient Initiatives in the economic reform programme of the federal government under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari.

He also used the opportunity to restate government’s commitment to combating climate change and reducing its impact on Nigerians.