By STELLA JOHNSON OGBOVOVEH

Extreme Heat Hits Nigeria: How to Stay Safe as Heat-Related Deaths Loom

AS Nigeria moves from the rainy season into the hotter, drier months, health authorities are urging residents to take practical steps to protect themselves from rising temperatures. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke, while also worsening existing medical conditions.

The warning comes as a report by the Climate Impact Lab estimates that Nigeria could record 31,400 additional heat-related deaths between September 2026 and February 2027. The report, titled 451,000 at Risk: Where Action Can Save Lives During the Super El Niño, projects 451,000 additional heat-related deaths worldwide during the same period.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), in an advisory issued on 23 October, warned that hotter days and greater heat discomfort could accompany the transition into the dry season. According to the agency, reduced rainfall and cloud cover could contribute to rising temperatures in different parts of the country.

Consequently, residents need to understand the risks, recognise the warning signs and take preventive action before extreme heat becomes a medical emergency.

Who Faces the Greatest Risk?

Although extreme heat can affect anyone, certain groups face a greater risk of serious illness. The World Health Organisation (WHO) identifies older people, young children, people living with chronic illnesses and outdoor workers among those who are particularly vulnerable.

For example, people with heart, lung or kidney conditions, as well as those living with diabetes, may experience worsening symptoms when temperatures rise significantly. Their bodies may also find it more difficult to cope with the additional strain that heat places on normal bodily functions.

Similarly, farmers, construction workers, traders and other people who spend long hours outdoors can face prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Without sufficient drinking water, shaded rest areas and opportunities to cool down, these workers may become dehydrated or develop heat-related illnesses.

Older people living alone may also face additional difficulties because they might not receive timely assistance when the heat becomes overwhelming. Young children, meanwhile, require close attention because they depend on adults to keep them hydrated and protect them from excessive heat.

For these reasons, households, schools, employers and community organisations should pay particular attention to people who may struggle to recognise or respond to heat-related symptoms.

Drink Water & Reduce Exposure to the Sun

NiMet advises Nigerians to drink water regularly and wear lightweight, breathable clothing. These simple measures can help people cope with hot conditions, particularly when they must spend time outdoors.

In addition, residents should limit prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, especially during the hottest periods of the day. Where possible, people should reschedule strenuous activities for cooler hours, such as early morning or later in the evening.

Outdoor workers can also reduce their exposure by taking regular breaks in shaded or cooler areas. Employers should provide adequate drinking water, ensure that work areas have suitable ventilation where possible and allow workers to rest when temperatures become uncomfortable.

Schools and other workplaces have a similar responsibility. NiMet recommends adequate ventilation, accessible drinking water, shaded rest areas and regular breaks during hot weather.

At home, residents should try to keep indoor spaces as cool as possible. They can also seek shade or move to a cooler location when rooms become excessively hot. Furthermore, families should check on relatives, neighbours and friends who may need help, particularly older people and those who live alone.

Parents must exercise special caution when travelling with children. According to WHO guidance, children should never be left alone in parked vehicles because temperatures inside a vehicle can rise rapidly, even when the weather outside does not appear exceptionally hot.

Recognising Heat Exhaustion

Recognising the symptoms of heat-related illness early can prevent a dangerous situation from becoming more serious. Heat exhaustion may cause heavy sweating, weakness, headaches, dizziness and nausea.

If someone develops these symptoms in hot conditions, move the person to a cooler place and help them cool down. Offer drinking water if the person is fully alert and can swallow safely. However, seek medical assistance if symptoms worsen, do not improve promptly or raise concerns about a more serious condition.

Importantly, people should not assume that every heat-related illness will resolve with rest alone. The person’s condition may deteriorate, particularly if exposure to high temperatures continues or the body cannot cool itself effectively.

Heatstroke Requires Immediate Medical Attention

Heatstroke is a potentially fatal medical emergency and differs from ordinary discomfort caused by hot weather. WHO identifies signs such as delirium, convulsions and loss of consciousness during extreme heat as serious warning signs requiring immediate medical attention. Hot skin may also accompany the condition.

When heatstroke is suspected, seek emergency medical help immediately. Move the affected person away from the heat and begin cooling them while assistance is being arranged, provided it is safe to do so. Do not delay urgent care while waiting to see whether the person recovers.

The distinction matters because heat exhaustion and heatstroke do not carry the same level of danger. While early cooling and appropriate fluids may help someone with heat exhaustion, suspected heatstroke requires urgent professional treatment.

Why Governments & Communities Must Prepare

The projected number of additional heat-related deaths highlights the need for timely planning. The Climate Impact Lab says such estimates can help governments and humanitarian organisations identify vulnerable populations and direct resources towards interventions that could save lives.

Nevertheless, projections describe a potential risk rather than a confirmed death toll. Their practical significance lies in the opportunity they provide to prepare health services, inform the public and strengthen protection for people who face the greatest exposure.

NiMet has urged residents to follow official weather forecasts and advisories as conditions change. In addition, public health agencies, schools, employers and community leaders can help by sharing clear information about hydration, safe working practices, cooling measures and emergency warning signs.

Ultimately, preventing heat-related illness requires action from individuals as well as institutions. Drinking water, reducing exposure to the hottest conditions, checking on vulnerable neighbours and responding quickly to warning signs can all help reduce avoidable harm as Nigeria enters the hotter months.