The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) said a fresh dust has been observed over western Chad and south eastern Niger Republic as at yesterday which will further deteriorate horizontal visibilities across the country, especially over the north eastern parts.
The agency stated that moderate visibility is already being reported over Maiduguri, Kano, Nguru, Obudu, Asaba, Jos, Minna, Abuja, Makurdi, Gombe, Yelwa, Lagos, Akure and Awka. Consequently, the agency noted that the expected reduction in visibility due to harmattan dust haze may cause cancellation and delay of flights, saying this is for the safety of air travellers.
The Director-General of NIMET, Dr. Anthony Anuforom, told New Telegraph that most parts of Northern cities such as Katsina, Maiduguri, Kano, Gusau, Damaturu, Nguru, Bauchi and Zaria are expected to experience a further reduction in horizontal visibilities to less than 1000m in about 10 hours from time of issuance or less.
He noted that a further reduction in visibility is expected over parts of the central cities such as Abuja, Minna, Bida, Lafia, Jos, Makurdi, Lokoja, in thick dust haze condition with visibilities of 1000m or less in the next 18 hours or less from time of issuance.
His words: “Southern cities including Enugu, Asaba, Ibadan, Lagos, Akure, Owerri and Port Harcourt are also expected to still be under the influence of thick to moderate dust haze (visibility 2-5km) and localised visibility less than 1000m in the next 24hrs.”
Anuforom advised road users to be careful and avoid over speeding, especially during the early morning period when horizontal visibility is mostly impaired.
The NIMET chief said the harmattan dust haze has its attendant health implications, advising those that are allergic to dust to take necessary precautions and take their medications to alleviate its effect on their health.
