The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has called for urgent action, advocating for the declaration of a state of emergency in regions grappling with severe heatwaves.
Recent weeks have seen many parts of the country sweltering under excessive heat, sparking widespread concerns among citizens.
Vincent Weli, Director of Weather Forecast Services at NiMet, emphasized the need for decisive measures during an appearance on Channels Television’s “The Morning Brief”.
Weli underscored the potential ramifications of the ongoing heatwave, suggesting that a state of emergency declaration might be necessary to safeguard public health.
Weli stated, “I have noted before now that in those states that are affected, there’s a need for a state of emergency to be declared so that people can stay out of work within this period, especially when the sun is very high.”
He further elaborated on the adverse effects of prolonged exposure to high temperatures, highlighting concerns over compromised cognitive development and decreased productivity.
Weli stressed the importance of mitigating these risks by implementing measures to minimize outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
“As the temperatures soar, cognitive development will be affected, and productivity will be impacted. There will be a loss of concentration,” he warned.
In light of these concerns, Weli proposed specific timeframes during which vulnerable individuals should refrain from outdoor activities.
He recommended avoiding strenuous work under direct sunlight between 12 noon and 3 pm, urging people to schedule tasks in the cooler hours of the morning or late afternoon.
NiMet’s call for proactive measures underscores the pressing need for coordinated efforts to address the challenges posed by extreme heatwaves, prioritizing public health and well-being in affected regions.
