EL NIÑO: EXTREME HEAT GRIPS NIGERIA AS NIMET, NEMA WARN OF RISING WEATHER RISKS.

By Desmond

Nigeria is facing growing concerns over extreme heat as the El Niño climate phenomenon strengthens, prompting warnings about possible health risks, changing rainfall patterns and threats to agriculture and food security.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) confirmed the onset of a strong El Niño event in its August 2026 climate update, while the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has urged Nigerians to take precautionary measures against its possible effects.

According to recent reports, temperatures have reached 41°C in Nguru, Yobe State, and 34°C in Lagos, highlighting the intense heat being experienced in parts of the country. NiMet has also warned of hotter conditions and increased heat discomfort as Nigeria moves into the dry season.

What Is El Niño?

El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon that occurs when the surface waters of the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean become warmer than normal. This warming affects atmospheric circulation and can change weather conditions across different parts of the world.

The World Meteorological Organization has warned that the current event could strengthen further and influence global temperatures and weather patterns into early 2027.

Although El Niño develops thousands of kilometres away from Nigeria, its influence can extend to West Africa. However, scientists caution that its effects vary by region, and not every period of extreme heat or reduced rainfall can be attributed solely to the phenomenon.

Health Risks Raise Concern

One of the major concerns surrounding the current heat is its potential impact on public health.

Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion and potentially fatal heatstroke. Children, older people, outdoor workers and individuals with certain underlying health conditions may face greater risks.

A recent Climate Impact Lab projection estimated that Nigeria could experience approximately 31,400 additional heat-related deaths between September 2026 and February 2027. This figure is a forecast, not a confirmed death toll, and actual outcomes will depend partly on weather conditions and protective measures taken.

Farmers, traders, construction workers, commercial drivers and other people who spend long hours outdoors could be particularly vulnerable.

Agriculture and Food Supply Under Pressure

El Niño can also influence rainfall patterns, creating challenges for farmers who depend on predictable weather for planting and harvesting.

Prolonged dry spells may reduce soil moisture, affect crop yields and place pressure on water supplies. These challenges could have consequences for livestock, rural livelihoods and food availability.

However, the exact effects on Nigerian agriculture will depend on local rainfall patterns, the timing of the rainy season and other factors, including insecurity, transport costs and access to farming inputs.

NEMA Advises Nigerians to Prepare

NEMA has encouraged individuals, households and communities to take preventive steps as the risk of extreme weather increases.

Residents are advised to drink clean water regularly, wear lightweight clothing, seek shade and reduce strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day. Families should also check on elderly relatives, young children and vulnerable neighbours.

Farmers and communities should pay attention to official weather forecasts, conserve water where possible and prepare for both prolonged dry spells and episodes of heavy rainfall.

Conclusion

The growing concern over El Niño is a reminder that extreme weather can affect more than daily comfort. It can threaten public health, agricultural production, water supplies and household livelihoods.

As Nigeria prepares for the coming months, timely information, public awareness and practical preventive measures will be essential to reducing the risks.

While El Niño cannot be prevented, its potential consequences can be reduced through preparedness and responsible action.

Sources: Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), World Meteorological Organization (WMO),