By GABRIEL AGBEJA

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has predicted increased chances of flight delays and cancellations due to the attendant poor horizontal visibility.

This is contained in a 2023 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) released by the agency.

According to NiMet, there will be more disruptions to flight operations because of more convective activities (wind shear, microburst and poor visibility due to heavy rain).

“The projected rainfall pattern in 2023 implies that there would be frequent heavy rains during the long rainy season. The convective rains accompanied by strong winds will lead to more cases of flight disruption.

“The projected high temperatures will increase the prospects of wind shear and air turbulence.

“The prospects of increased mid latitude wave activity will also increase the spate of raised dust and dust conditions which can increase chances of flight delays and cancellations due to the attendant poor horizontal visibility.”

According to NiMet, air transport is known to be the safest, fastest and most preferred means of transport over both short and long distances.

The agency said the air transport safety and speed, however, being affected by weather.

It advised airline operators to adhere strictly to safety guidelines for flight operations in poor weather conditions.

“Pilots are strongly advised to ensure they go for preflight briefing at NiMet’s forecast offices and flight briefing rooms at the airports across the nation.

“Flight operators should put safety of their passengers ahead of profit maximisation. Continuous monitoring and clearing the runway of runoffs and other debris.

“Provision of remote sensing equipment to ensure the provision of early warning and real time observation of the weather,” it stated. (NAN)