BY: Mustapha Lawal
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued repeated heat stress warnings as temperatures continue to soar across the country. However, these warnings have the propensity to spark a wave of misinformation and false claims on social media, possibly in the form of exaggerated temperature figures or misleading health advice.
This report is to pre-bunk some of the possible claims using verified sources.
Claim 1: “NiMet has declared a nationwide heatwave emergency”
Verdict: False
While NiMet has issued heat stress warnings, there is no official declaration of a nationwide heatwave emergency. The agency provides daily updates on temperature fluctuations and potential risks but has not classified the situation as an emergency requiring extraordinary measures. According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), a heatwave is defined as a prolonged period of excessive heat lasting at least four consecutive days, a threshold that has not been universally met across Nigeria.
Claim 2: “Temperatures in Nigeria have reached 50°C in some states”
Verdict: Misleading
Recent reports indicate that some locations in Northern Nigeria have recorded temperatures as high as 42°C, but there is no verified record of 50°C being reached. NiMet’s latest updates show that Yelwa recorded 40°C, while Jalingo and Yola hit 42°C. The highest officially recorded temperature in Nigeria remains 47.6°C in Yola, Adamawa State, in April 2010 (World Bank Climate Data).
Claim 3: “Drinking cold water during extreme heat can cause shock and lead to death”
Verdict: False
This is a common myth that lacks scientific backing. Health professionals, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recommend drinking cool or cold water to regulate body temperature during extreme heat. However, drinking ice-cold water too quickly after prolonged exposure to heat may cause mild stomach cramps but is not fatal. The best hydration strategy is to sip water frequently rather than consuming large quantities at once.
Claim 4: “Heat stress is only dangerous for the elderly”
Verdict: False
While older adults are more vulnerable due to age-related physiological changes, children, pregnant women, outdoor workers, and individuals with chronic illnesses are also at high risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), healthy young people can also suffer from heat stress if exposed to extreme temperatures for extended periods without proper hydration.
Claim 5: “Using air conditioning too much can worsen heat exposure”
Verdict: Misleading
Air conditioning (AC) does not worsen heat exposure; it is one of the most effective ways to stay cool. However, abrupt transitions from extremely hot outdoor environments to very cold indoor spaces can cause mild thermal discomfort. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises setting ACs to moderate cooling levels rather than extreme cold to allow the body to adjust more comfortably. (CDC)
Claim 6: “Nigeria has never experienced heat stress warnings before”
Verdict: False
NiMet has issued similar heat stress warnings in previous years, especially in 2019, 2021, and 2024. Historical temperature trends show that Nigeria’s average temperature has increased over the past two decades, making heat stress warnings more frequent (BusinessDay).
Claim 7: “Drinking excessive water can prevent all heat-related illnesses”
Verdict: Misleading
Hydration is critical in preventing heat stress, but excessive water intake without electrolyte balance can lead to hyponatremia (water intoxication), a dangerous condition where the body’s sodium levels drop too low. Experts recommend drinking water with small amounts of salt or electrolyte-rich drinks (Mayo Clinic).
Claim 8: “Heatwaves in Nigeria are a temporary issue and will not return next year”
Verdict: False
Climate scientists agree that heatwaves will become more frequent due to climate change, deforestation, and rapid urbanization. Researchers have warned that heat-related events are expected to intensify over the coming years unless proactive measures are taken to reduce global carbon emissions.
Claim 9: “NiMet’s heat stress warnings are inaccurate, and temperatures are not that high”
Verdict: False
NiMet follows internationally recognized meteorological standards to measure and report temperature readings.
Claim 10: “Sleeping under a fan during extreme heat can cause respiratory illness”
Verdict: Partly False
While fans do not directly cause illness, they can worsen dehydration if the surrounding air is too hot and dry. The CDC recommends using fans only when the indoor temperature is below 35°C, as they do not reduce body temperature in extreme heat. If indoor temperatures are very high, it is safer to seek air-conditioned spaces or take cool showers.
Conclusion
Misinformation about heat stress and extreme temperatures can lead to dangerous health choices and unnecessary panic. Fact-checking and relying on official meteorological reports, scientific studies, and health guidelines are essential to ensuring public safety. NiMet’s heat stress warnings should not be dismissed, and Nigerians should take appropriate preventive measures to protect themselves from the increasing risks of extreme heat.
For accurate weather updates and safety recommendations, always refer to NiMet’s official platforms (https://nimet.gov.ng/) or trusted weather agencies such as the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).
