Super El Niño: NiMet Warns Of rising Heat, Erratic Rainfall In Nigeria
By Stella Enenche, Abuja
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned that an exceptionally strong El Niño event, commonly known as Super El Niño, could expose Nigeria to higher temperatures, irregular rainfall and prolonged dry spells.
NiMet gave the warning on Monday in an awareness statement via its official X handle.
The agency said the phenomenon, which occurs when sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean become unusually warm, has the potential to influence weather patterns across the world, including rainfall distribution and temperature levels in Nigeria.
NiMet explained that a Super El Niño describes an exceptionally strong event in which Pacific Ocean temperatures rise more than two degrees Celsius above the long-term average.
It, however, clarified that the term is not an official classification of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), despite its widespread use.
According to the agency, only three exceptionally strong El Niño events have been recorded in recent decades, namely those of 1982/83, 1997/98 and 2015/16.
NiMet identified higher-than-normal temperatures, increased heat stress, irregular rainfall patterns and prolonged dry spells as some of the potential consequences for Nigeria.
It also warned that rising temperatures could increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, underscoring the need for greater public awareness and preparedness.
The agency said understanding climate patterns was essential to helping individuals, communities and relevant authorities make informed decisions and strengthen their capacity to adapt to changing weather conditions.
It urged Nigerians to remain alert to timely weather and climate information as part of efforts to minimise the possible effects of extreme weather events.
NiMet encouraged the public to follow its official weather and climate updates to stay informed and prepared.
