Following the public presentation of 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency in Abuja on the 4th of February 2025 with the theme ‘The Role of Early Warnings towards a Climate Resilient Aviation Industry for Sustainable Socio-Economic Development’.
Our correspondent reports that it was predicted that Gombe State may likely experience; Onset date of rainy season is predicted to start on the 27th May in Shongom and will later occur on the 17th of June in Nafada.
According to an advisory by Lydia Simon Bawa, Desk Officer Climate Change, the cessation of rainfall is predicted to occur on the 14th of October in Nafada and would occur much later on the 3rd November in Yamaltu/Deba.
She disclosed that the annual rainfall amount is predicted to be below normal and is expected to be between the range of 606mm to 789mm rainfall, the prediction shows that Nafada is likely to observe minimum amount of 606mm while Shongom is likely record maximum of 789mm.
She said, “The rain is predicted to stay shortly for 107 days in Nafada and stay much longer for 140 days in Yamaltu/Deba.
“A severe dry spell is predicted for up to 21days and above across Nafada, Yamaltu/Deba, Dukku and Funakaye from June – August 2025.
“The day/night time temperature for March and April is predicted to be normal,while the night time temperature for May is predicted to be cooler than normal.
“Gombe State is likely to have below normal length of season.
NiMet also predicted strong windstorms across the country and sandstorms in the extreme northern states of which Gombe is among.”
Bawa continued urging farmers to adhere strictly to the predicted onset dates before the commencement of rainfed farming operations.
“Farmers should not plant before the establishment of the rains. Farmers in areas predicted to have normal to short length of growing season are advised to plant early and use early maturing varieties of crop.
“Where onset is delayed, farmers are advised to use drought-resistant and early maturing crop varieties.
“Drainages should be kept clean and free of waste and accumulated sand removed from time to time for free flow of runoff water to avoid flooding that may destroy lives and properties.
“Desist from dumping of waste in drainages. Open defecation is discouraged.
“Trim tall tree branches close to power installation.
Discourage the cutting down of trees because they serve as wind breakers and control erosion.
“Turnoff all electrical appliances from wall sockets. The general public is encouraged to promote water harvesting during rainy season, this would come in handy during dry spells.Motorist are advised to avoid movement during rainstorms,” she added.
