Super El Niño warning: how NEMA says you can stay safe as heat rises

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has told Nigerians to prepare for a “Super El Niño”, warning that it “can cause hotter temperatures, less rainfall, drought, floods and food shortages”. Its advisory lists eight steps for households, from avoiding the midday sun to storing water and food.

The advisory, titled “Super El Niño Is Coming: What You Can Do to Protect Yourself, Your Family and Your Community”, was shared on NEMA's channels and reported by Punch and Channels on 27 October. News Central reported that NEMA expects the event to affect Nigeria from November 2026 to March 2027.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) had already said that ocean data “confirms the onset of a strong El Niño event in 2026” and that it raises the chance of above-normal temperatures. The World Meteorological Organization has said the event is almost certain to last into early 2027, TheCable reported, though it noted that local conditions decide how strongly each country is affected.

NEMA's main advice: limit time outdoors between 11am and 4pm, drink clean water often, wear light clothing and a hat, and check on children, older people and anyone who is unwell. It also asks households to fix leaks, store water in clean covered containers, keep some food in reserve, and keep surroundings clean to cut the risk of malaria and water-borne diseases. Farmers are urged to use drought-resistant crops and improved farming practices.

Many Nigerians have been complaining online about intense daytime heat followed by sudden rain. NEMA says people should follow official updates from NEMA, NiMet and their state governments, and report emergencies to the authorities.

Pidgin: NEMA don warn say “Super El Niño” dey come, wey fit bring strong heat, small rain, drought, flood and food wahala. Dem say make people no stay for sun between 11am and 4pm, drink clean water well-well, store water and food, and check on pikin and old people.

How this affects you: Plan outdoor work, errands and school runs for early morning or evening where you can, drink clean water often and store water in covered containers. Keep an eye on children, older relatives and anyone with a health condition, and see a health worker early if someone feels dizzy, weak or very hot. Farmers should follow NiMet updates when planning planting.