Abstract:
The study presents observed changes in climate extremes using daily precipitation
and temperature data over 24 stations, covering the three climatic zones (Guinea
coast, Savannah and Sahel) of Nigeria for the period 1971–2013. The data were
homogenized with Expert Team on Climate Change Detection Indices (ETCCDI)
RHtests version 4 software. RClimDex version 1.0 software was used to calculate
17 of the ETCCDI recommended precipitation and temperature extreme indices.
The spatio-temporal variation in the observed trends was analysed over each of the
climatic zone. Results show a significant increase in the frequencies of warm spell,
warm days and nights and decreasing cold spell, cold days and nights over the
three climatic zones. A significant increase in annual total precipitation was found
in some stations across the Guinea coast and Sahel zones. Changes in consecutive
dry days and consecutive wet days are non-significant in most stations. Also, a significant
increase in extremely wet days was observed in a few stations across the
three climatic zones. The implication of the observed warming could, however,
result in thermal discomfort of lives in areas with significant positive trends. This
could also exert pressure on the economy’s power sector, as energy demand for
cooling will increase. The increase in total annual precipitation will potentially be
favourable for hydropower generation and increase the availability of the potable
water supply for both industrial and domestic uses in the country. However, the
increase in consecutive dry days and the decrease in consecutive wet days are dangerous
for agricultural practices and, hence, food security.
