The Ekiti State government, via its Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, has urged residents to stay calm and take appropriate measures in response to the forecasted thunderstorms in certain areas of the state by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET).
This was disclosed in a statement signed by Erelu Tosin Ajisafe-Aluko, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, in Ado Ekiti.
The Commissioner, acknowledging thunderstorms as a natural phenomenon, also highlighted the potential hazards they pose.
Erelu Ajisafe-Aluko advised residents to remain calm and take necessary precautions to minimize any potential risks associated with the phenomenon
Precautionary measures advised by the Ministry include seeking shelter indoors and waiting until the storm passes, staying away from windows and reflective surfaces, avoiding open flames and gas, maintaining a safe posture, and refraining from using mobile phones as metal can attract lightning during thunderstorms.
The Commissioner also cautioned residents to minimize electrical hazards by turning off and unplugging electrical appliances to avoid damage from power surges as well as keeping a safe distance from electric wires, poles, and other conductors.
He further assured the residents that if the above precautionary measures are followed religiously, the state stands the chance of recording few or no casualties from the natural occurrence this year.