# Heat wave in Nigeria

A heat wave, sometimes referred to as extreme heat, is a prolonged period of abnormally high temperatures.  It is generally defined as lasting for at least five consecutive days and is measured relative to the typical climate of a given region and seasonal norms. One challenge in defining heat waves is determining what constitutes a "normal" temperature and the spatial extent of the event. Temperatures considered typical in hotter climates may be regarded as a heat wave in cooler regions if they exceed the usual climate pattern for that area. Since the 1950s, heat waves have become more frequent and intense across nearly all land areas due to climate change.
Heat waves occur when a high-pressure system in the upper atmosphere intensifies and remains over a region for several days to weeks, trapping heat near the Earth's surface. These events can often be predicted in advance, allowing authorities to issue warnings and prepare for potential impacts.
Heat wave in Nigeria is often due to excessively high temperatures, often accompanied by dry conditions and increased humidity. These extreme weather events have become more frequent in recent years, exacerbated by climate change and environmental degradation. Nigeria, being a tropical country, experiences varying temperature fluctuations, but heat waves pose severe challenges, particularly in urban centers where concrete structures and limited vegetation amplify heat retention. The frequency and intensity of heat waves have increased, leading to significant impacts on public health, agriculture, and economic activities.

## Causes

Climate change is a primary driver of heat waves in Nigeria, as rising global temperatures have intensified the frequency and duration of extreme heat events. The increasing concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere has led to elevated surface temperatures, causing prolonged heat waves across the country. Nigeria, being situated in a tropical climate zone, is particularly vulnerable to these changes, with states in the northern region experiencing the most extreme conditions. The shifting climate patterns have also disrupted traditional weather cycles, making heat waves more unpredictable and severe.
* Deforestation has significantly contributed to heat waves in Nigeria, as widespread tree felling for agriculture, urban expansion, and fuelwood reduces the natural cooling effect of forests. Vegetation plays a crucial role in regulating temperatures by providing shade and releasing moisture into the atmosphere. However, as more land is cleared for development, urban areas experience an intensified heat island effect, where temperatures are notably higher than in surrounding rural areas. This phenomenon is especially pronounced in major cities such as Lagos, Abuja, and Kano, where green spaces are diminishing rapidly.
* Urbanization and rapid industrial development have further exacerbated heat waves in Nigeria. The construction of concrete buildings, roads, and other infrastructure materials that absorb and retain heat has led to sustained high temperatures, particularly in metropolitan regions. Additionally, the increased use of air conditioning and industrial activities release heat into the environment, further warming the local climate. Poor urban planning, which lacks adequate ventilation and green areas, has also contributed to making Nigerian cities hotspots for extreme heat events.
* The depletion of water bodies, including rivers, lakes, and wetlands, has also played a role in intensifying heat waves in Nigeria. Water bodies help moderate temperatures by absorbing and releasing heat slowly, but their disappearance due to climate change, pollution, and human activities has reduced this cooling effect. Regions experiencing severe droughts and reduced rainfall are particularly vulnerable, as dry conditions worsen the effects of extreme heat.
* Agricultural practices, such as large scale irrigation and the overuse of chemical fertilizers, contribute to rising temperatures in some regions of Nigeria. Excessive irrigation can lead to increased humidity, creating conditions that amplify heat waves, while chemical fertilizers release greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. Poor land management practices, including overgrazing and soil degradation, further exacerbate these effects, making rural communities more susceptible to extreme heat events.
* Air pollution, particularly from vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and open burning of waste, has worsened heat waves in Nigeria. Pollutants such as black carbon and ozone trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to increased surface temperatures. Cities with high levels of air pollution experience more intense heat waves, as smog and greenhouse gases prevent heat from escaping, creating a warming effect known as localized climate change.

## Impact

Heat waves in Nigeria have profound health implications, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre existing medical conditions. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat increases the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke, which can be fatal if not promptly treated. Healthcare facilities often experience a surge in heat-related illnesses during periods of extreme temperatures, straining medical resources and infrastructure. Also, high temperatures intensify respiratory conditions such as asthma and other chronic illnesses due to increased air pollution and deteriorating air quality, particularly in urban areas with heavy industrial activity and vehicular emissions.
Agricultural productivity in Nigeria is significantly affected by heat waves, leading to food insecurity and economic hardship for farmers. Extreme temperatures reduce soil moisture, disrupt planting and harvesting cycles, and increase the risk of droughts, ultimately leading to poor crop yields. Staple crops such as maize, rice, and millet, which require consistent water supply and favorable growing conditions, are particularly vulnerable to prolonged heat exposure. Livestock farming is also impacted, as excessive heat leads to water shortages, reduced grazing land, and increased mortality among animals. The resulting decline in food production contributes to higher food prices, affecting both rural and urban populations, with low-income households being the most severely impacted.
The economic consequences of heat waves extend beyond agriculture, affecting labor productivity, energy demand, and infrastructure. Outdoor workers in sectors such as construction, transportation, and manufacturing face extreme working conditions, leading to heat related illnesses and reduced efficiency. The increased reliance on air conditioning and cooling systems places immense pressure on Nigeria's already fragile power grid, often resulting in frequent blackouts and energy shortages. Additionally, excessive heat contributes to the deterioration of road networks and public infrastructure, increasing maintenance costs for both government agencies and private businesses. These economic disruptions highlight the far-reaching consequences of heat waves on Nigeria's overall development and stability.

## Notable heat waves

In March 2019, Nigeria experienced one of its most intense heat waves, with temperatures exceeding 45°C (113°F) in some northern states. The extreme heat led to increased hospital admissions and power shortages. Many communities in Sokoto, Kano, and Maiduguri reported water shortages, and cases of heat related illnesses surged, particularly among children and the elderly.
The 2020 heat wave saw record breaking temperatures, particularly in states such as Katsina, Bauchi, and Yobe. The extreme heat triggered a rise in cases of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, leading to public health warnings. The power grid was heavily strained as electricity demand for cooling soared, resulting in frequent blackouts across major cities.
The 2023 heat wave was particularly severe, with cities like Abuja, Lagos, and Kano recording temperatures above 42°C (108°F). Reports indicated a rise in heat-related illnesses and economic slowdowns in affected regions. Several schools and businesses had to adjust their operating hours to minimize exposure to extreme heat. Additionally, an increase in wildfires was recorded in some agricultural zones, further exacerbating the challenges posed by the prolonged heat.