Prof. Vincent Weli, Director of Weather Services at NiMet, explained that this rain is deceptive and likely to stop within two weeks, followed by a dry spell. Farmers are advised to delay planting to avoid crop losses. He also warned residents in affected areas against drinking the rainwater due to potential health risks.
Prof. Weli dismissed concerns about flooding, noting that the ground remains too dry for such risks. He added that while some regions, like the South-South, have had intermittent rainfall since last year, the current early showers are linked to climate change.
NiMet’s 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP), set for release on February 10, will provide detailed weather forecasts and sector-specific impacts from February to December. The report aims to guide planning and mitigate potential losses.
