How Nigerians can cope, stay safe with El Niño — NEMA

A man pours water on his head to cool off amid intense heat...Photo Credit: checkclimate.africa

The National Emergency Management Agency has urged Nigerians to take steps to protect themselves, their families and communities against the potential effects of the developing El Niño phenomenon.

In a Monday advisory titled “Super El Niño Is Coming: What You Can Do to Protect Yourself, Your Family and Your Community,” the agency warned that “Super El Niño can cause hotter temperatures, less rainfall, drought, floods and food shortages.”

NEMA outlined eight measures individuals, households and communities could adopt to reduce the risks and stay safe.

El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon that occurs when sea-surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean become warmer than normal. It is the warm phase of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), which also includes the cooler La Niña phase and neutral conditions.

It can disrupt atmospheric circulation and influence rainfall and temperature patterns worldwide, though effects vary by location due to local conditions.

PUNCH reports describe the developing event 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 stated, “Analysis of the most recent ocean observations confirms the onset of a strong El Niño event in 2026.”

It 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 it as a “super El Niño” with significant implications for Nigeria’s rainfall patterns and noted that it increases the likelihood of above-normal temperatures globally.

Here are the measures recommended by NEMA:

1. Prepare for extreme heat

Stay hydrated – drink clean water regularly.

Avoid direct sun between 11 am and 4 pm.

Wear light clothing, hats and use sunscreen.

Check on children, the elderly and vulnerable people.

2. Conserve water

Use water wisely and avoid waste.

Fix leaks and store water in clean, covered containers.

Keep your environment clean to protect water sources.

3. Ensure food security

Store enough food for emergencies.

Support local farming and home gardening.

Protect your livestock and poultry.

Take advantage of agricultural support programmes.

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4. Pay attention to your health

Prevent heat-related illnesses and dehydration.

Keep your surroundings clean to avoid malaria and water-borne diseases.

Ensure proper sanitation and handwashing.

Seek medical help early when unwell.

5. Support your livelihood

Use drought-resistant crops and improved farming practices.

Diversify income sources.

Access government and partner support programmes.

6. Spend less time under the hot sun

Limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours (11 am – 4 pm).

Use shaded areas and wear a hat or cap.

Take regular breaks and stay hydrated.

Plan your activities for early morning or late evening.

7. Strengthen community action

Join community early warning and preparedness efforts.

Share information with neighbours and families.

Look out for the most vulnerable in your community.

8. Stay informed

Follow updates from NEMA, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and trusted media channels.