Descriptive analysis of rainfall and temperature trends over Akure, Nigeria

Climate change is expected to alter rainfall and temperature regimes across the world, Nigeria inclusive. Climate projections indicate warming and changes in rainfall varied from one location to another. This study presents a descriptive analysis of rainfall and temperature in Akure, Nigeria for a period of 32-year (1980 to 2011) using monthly record from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) and the Climatic Research Unit (CRU).  Descriptive and time series analyses were used to determine the rainfall and temperature regime of Akure. Climate diagram after Walter-Lieth was used, indicating significant difference between the rainy and dry season. The result showed that rainfall in the study site is characterized by alternating wet and dry periods with a tendency towards a wetter condition, which implies that rainy season length is becoming longer than dry season period. While temperature is increasing; causing a warmer environment, with consequences on human health, amongst others. This study provides a starting point and a useful guide on climate variability and change in Akure, Nigeria for further investigations, both at the local and national level with focus on more specific issues like public health, planning, adaptations and barriers. Key words: Rainfall, temperature, walter-lieth, descriptive analysis.