The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has urged Nigerians to take precautionary measures to protect themselves, their families and communities against the potential impacts of the developing El Niño phenomenon.
In an advisory issued on Monday titled “Super El Niño Is Coming: What You Can Do to Protect Yourself, Your Family and Your Community,” the agency warned that the climate phenomenon could trigger extreme heat, reduced rainfall, drought, flooding and food shortages.
NEMA outlined eight measures individuals, households and communities should adopt to minimise the risks and prepare for potential climate-related emergencies.
El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon characterised by warmer-than-normal sea-surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. It represents the warm phase of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), a climate pattern that also includes the cooler La Niña phase and neutral conditions.
The phenomenon can disrupt atmospheric circulation and alter rainfall and temperature patterns worldwide, although its effects vary across regions depending on local climate conditions.
The Telegraph reports that the developing event has been described as a strong or “super” El Niño.
In its Seasonal Climate Prediction Update for August 2026 and the August-September-October 2026 Rainfall Forecast, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) stated, “Analysis of the most recent ocean observations confirms the onset of a strong El Niño event in 2026.”
The agency added that “El Niño continues to intensify steadily and is expected to dominate global climate patterns during the August to October 2026 season.”
NiMet also described the event as a “super El Niño,” warning of potential implications for Nigeria’s rainfall patterns and an increased likelihood of above-normal global temperatures.
Eight measures Nigerians should take
According to NEMA, the following measures can help individuals and communities prepare for the potential effects of El Niño:
1. Prepare for extreme heat
- Drink clean water regularly to stay hydrated.
- Avoid direct exposure to sunlight between 11 am and 4 pm.
- Wear lightweight clothing and hats, and use sunscreen.
- Check on children, older people and other vulnerable individuals.
2. Conserve water
- Use water responsibly and avoid unnecessary waste.
- Repair leaking taps and pipes, and store water in clean, covered containers.
- Keep the environment clean to protect water sources from contamination.
3. Ensure food security
- Store sufficient food supplies for emergencies.
- Support local farming and home gardening.
- Protect livestock and poultry from extreme weather conditions.
- Take advantage of available agricultural support programmes.
4. Prioritise health and hygiene
- Take precautions against heat-related illnesses and dehydration.
- Maintain clean surroundings to reduce the risk of malaria and waterborne diseases.
- Practise proper sanitation and regular handwashing.
- Seek medical attention promptly when unwell.
5. Protect livelihoods
- Adopt drought-resistant crops and improved farming practices.
- Diversify income sources to reduce dependence on climate-sensitive activities.
- Explore government and partner support programmes for affected households and farmers.
6. Limit exposure to extreme heat
- Reduce outdoor activities during peak heat hours, particularly between 11 am and 4 pm.
- Seek shade and wear a hat or cap when outdoors.
- Take regular breaks and drink water frequently.
- Schedule outdoor activities for the early morning or late evening.
7. Strengthen community preparedness
- Participate in community early-warning and emergency preparedness initiatives.
- Share reliable safety information with neighbours and family members.
- Check on vulnerable people and offer assistance where possible.
8. Stay informed
- Follow updates from NEMA, NiMet and other trusted information sources.
- Pay attention to official weather advisories and emergency warnings.
- Report emergencies to NEMA and other relevant authorities.
