Nigeria Forecasts Dry Spell for 2025 Rainy Season, Warns Affected States
The Nigerian government has announced a forecast for a severe dry spell during the 2025 rainy season, lasting 27 to 40 days in specific states. The Little Dry Season is expected to begin in late July, particularly impacting Lagos and Ogun. Key predictions indicate varying rainfall and temperature patterns across the country, affecting agricultural readiness.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has alerted some states about a forecasted dry spell during the 2025 rainy season, lasting between 27 to 40 days. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, discussed these predictions at the 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) event organized by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet). The anticipated dry period is termed the Little Dry Season (LDS) and is expected to commence in late July, particularly affecting parts of Lagos and Ogun states.
Keyamo specified that a severe dry spell is likely after the rainfall begins in Oyo State, indicating areas including Saki, Iseyin, and Ogbomosho could see over 15 days without rain. Other states such as Ekiti, Osun, and Ondo may face moderate dry spells not exceeding 15 days. In the northern regions, a more significant dry spell lasting up to 21 days is predicted during June to August 2025.
The minister emphasized the distinction between pre-onset rainfall activities and the actual start of the rainy season, encouraging those involved in rain-dependent agriculture to refer to NiMet’s predictions for guidance. Keyamo explained that Northern and Central states, like Kaduna and Plateau, are expected to face delayed rainfall onset, while early onset will occur in Southern states including Delta and Rivers.
Concerning seasonal lengths, the 2025 rainy season is expected to unfold primarily normally nationwide, with Borno and parts of Yobe facing shorter durations, while Lagos and Nasarawa may see extended rainy seasons. The overall annual rainfall is expected to be normal to below-normal, although regions like Kebbi, Ebonyi, and Akwa Ibom may exceed average levels. Keyamo noted that high-intensity rainfall from May to June could result in flash floods, particularly in coastal areas.
Overall temperatures across Nigeria are anticipated to be higher than long-term averages, with warmer conditions expected in January, February, March, and May. However, April will likely be cooler, particularly in Northern states. NiMet’s Director General, Professor Charles Anosike, noted the importance of stakeholders utilizing the Seasonal Climate Prediction to effectively respond to weather changes for improvement and preparedness in agricultural practices.
In preparation for the upcoming 2025 rainy season, the Nigerian government is proactively addressing anticipated weather patterns that may affect various regions. The emphasis is on informing stakeholders involved in agriculture about potential dry spells and rainfall delays. The Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) serves as a critical tool in managing agricultural expectations and planning, ensuring farmers are informed about the forecasts.
The 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction indicates significant variability in rainfall patterns across Nigeria, with potential dry spells affecting specific states. Key trends include delayed onset in the north and early onset in the south, disrupting agricultural practices. Recognizing the importance of these predictions, the government and NiMet encourage stakeholders to prepare effectively for the evolving climate conditions.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
