Experts have called for regular hydration, tree planting and other preventive measures as concerns grow over extreme heat and its potential health risks in Nigeria.

The call comes amid concerns over the El Niño weather phenomenon, which can disrupt global weather patterns and contribute to rising temperatures in some regions.

El Niño occurs when trade winds over the Pacific Ocean weaken, allowing warmer surface waters to spread eastward and influence weather conditions across the world.

The phenomenon occurs at irregular intervals, usually every two to seven years, and can trigger heavy rainfall and flooding in some regions, while others experience drought, rising temperatures and prolonged heat.

Nigeria and other countries in West and Central Africa face the risk of increased temperatures, raising concerns over public health and the need for adequate preparedness.

A physician, Dr Folakemi Olori, explained how El Niño influences weather conditions in different parts of the world.

With extreme heat capable of causing dehydration, heat exhaustion and potentially fatal heatstroke, a public health educator, Dr Nonso Engemba, highlighted practical measures individuals can adopt to protect themselves.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency, NiMet, has also called on governments at all levels to provide cooling facilities, accessible drinking water and shaded public spaces to reduce the impact of extreme heat.

The agency’s Assistant General Manager and Technical Assistant to the Director General, Dr James Adams, said planting and preserving trees, alongside ensuring access to water, were essential measures for protecting communities.

On projections that more than 31,000 Nigerians could die from extreme heat, Dr Adams explained the basis of the estimate and the factors contributing to the projected figure.

Experts stressed that the impact of extreme heat goes beyond discomfort, requiring increased public awareness, individual responsibility and coordinated government action.

They urged residents to maintain regular hydration, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and look out for vulnerable groups, particularly children, older persons and people with underlying health conditions.

The experts emphasised that proactive measures by individuals, communities and government agencies would be critical to reducing heat-related illnesses and protecting lives.