Assessment of Climate Variability and Associated Health Implications under Cyclonic and Anticyclonic Atmospheric Conditions in Ado-Ekiti, Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

Atmospheric circulation systems play a crucial role in regulating rainfall occurrence and environmental conditions within tropical upland regions. This study examines climate variability and associated health implications under cyclonic and anticyclonic atmospheric conditions in Ado-Ekiti, Southwestern Nigeria. Meteorological parameters comprising atmospheric temperature, ambient temperature, wind speed, and precipitation probability were obtained from the Meteoblue database and analysed using descriptive time-series techniques. The results indicate a pronounced diurnal cycle characterized by progressive warming from morning to afternoon hours followed by gradual cooling during the evening. Rainfall probability exhibited a delayed response relative to peak temperature conditions, reaching maximum values during the late afternoon and evening periods. Wind speed showed moderate variability throughout the observation period and remained within a relatively stable range. The findings suggest that precipitation occurrence in the study area is primarily controlled by local thermodynamic processes, moisture availability, and topographic influences rather than strong synoptic-scale disturbances. The observed climatic behaviour has important implications for flood susceptibility, water-resource management, thermal stress exposure, and the transmission of climate-sensitive diseases. The study provides insight into the atmospheric mechanisms governing rainfall variability in upland environments and highlights the importance of integrating meteorological information into environmental planning and public-health adaptation strategies.