Nigeria will witness the annual August Break across parts of the South-West this month even as widespread rainfall, thunderstorms and localized flooding continue to affect much of the country, according to the August 2026 Weather Outlook released by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).
The agency said the temporary reduction in rainfall, popularly known as the August Break or Little Dry Season, is expected to occur across parts of Lagos, Ogun, Oyo and Ekiti states, offering a brief interruption to the peak of the rainy season in the South-West.
Despite the expected dry spell in parts of the region, NiMet cautioned that August will remain largely wet nationwide, with monthly rainfall totals projected to range between 100.1 millimetres and 438.9 millimetres.
According to the outlook, the North-West is expected to record normal to above-normal rainfall, while parts of the North-East and sections of Southern Nigeria are likely to experience normal to below-normal rainfall. Moderate dry spell conditions are also expected over parts of the northern and central states.
Meteorologists explained that the August Break is a normal climatic phenomenon that occurs during the rainy season in southern Nigeria. It is characterised by a temporary reduction in rainfall lasting for several days or weeks before the rains resume in full. The phenomenon is particularly significant for farming activities, as it influences planting schedules and crop management.
NiMet forecast frequent thunderstorms and moderate to heavy rainfall across Northern Nigeria, particularly during the afternoons and evenings. Residents of the region were advised to prepare for strong winds, localized flooding and occasional sunny intervals between rain events.
In the North-Central region, regular rainfall and thunderstorms are expected throughout the month. The agency warned that increased surface runoff and flash floods could affect urban centres, while cloud cover is expected to keep daytime temperatures relatively cool.
Across Southern Nigeria, rainfall is expected to persist over the South-South and South-East, although parts of the South-West are projected to experience the August Break. Areas that continue to receive heavy rainfall may face high humidity and localized flooding, the agency added.
The weather outlook also indicated that temperatures will remain relatively mild throughout the month due to extensive cloud cover and persistent rainfall. Maximum daytime temperatures are forecast to range between 24.6°C and 33.2°C, while minimum nighttime temperatures are expected to vary between 17.6°C and 23.9°C.
Beyond rainfall, NiMet warned that prevailing weather conditions could heighten public health risks.
The agency said malaria transmission is expected to remain high, particularly across the North-Central and Southern states, owing to persistent rainfall and stagnant water that provide breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
It also raised concerns over an elevated risk of cholera outbreaks in Northern Nigeria, urging residents to prioritise good hygiene, safe drinking water and proper sanitation practices.
NiMet advised farmers to closely monitor the August Break, improve drainage on farmlands and avoid applying fertilizers immediately before heavy rainfall to minimise nutrient loss.
Motorists and airline operators were also urged to anticipate reduced visibility and possible operational disruptions during thunderstorms.
Residents nationwide were encouraged to clear blocked drainage channels, avoid driving or walking through flooded roads, eliminate stagnant water around homes, secure loose outdoor objects and remain alert to official weather advisories.
The agency said the August outlook underscores the need for sustained flood preparedness, disease prevention measures and climate resilience as the rainy season reaches one of its most active periods across the country.