Assessing the Impacts of Temperature and Precipitation Dynamics on Climate Variability Across Northeast Nigeria

Abstract

Several studies have highlighted the vulnerability of the climatic and weather dynamics globally. This study investigates climate variability impacts and the relationship between temperature and precipitation in diverse locales, emphasizing their effects on local environments and ecosystems. We analyze climatic data across Northeast Nigeria, which include Bauchi (10.31°N, 9.84°E), Damaturu (11.75°N, 11.96°E), Gombe (10.29°N, 11.17°E), Jalingo (8.89°N, 11.36°E), Maiduguri (11.85°N, 13.16°E), and Yola (9.21°N, 12.48°E). Exploring mean yearly temperature (oC) and precipitation (mm) data for forty-six (46) years from 1979 to 2024 retrieved from meteoblue database. The highest values observed were 29.40°C in 2005 and 2024 in Jalingo (8.89°N, 11.36°E) and 1502.60 mm in 1981 in Bauchi (10.31°N, 9.84°E). The methodology comprises of descriptive statistics, correlation matrices, trend graphs, box plots, and visualizing relationships utilizing heatmaps. Using linear regression, we obtained an average R² of 0.34 for all the locations. Jalingo was found to have the highest mean temperature of 28.51°C. Bauchi depicts the highest precipitation of 1092.56 mm. This indicates that the locations have warmer climatic condition, while fluctuations in mean precipitation signify varied hydrological systems. Results of this study indicate important developments in climatic variables and their possible effects on ecosystems and agriculture, rising unpredictability in precipitation patterns and temperature extremes. The findings highlight the necessity for adaptive strategies to alleviate the dangers of flooding and resource depletion. Through the integration of these measures, communities within these locations in northeast Nigeria can enhance their preparedness and adaptability to the challenges presented by evolving environmental conditions.