nature at work: Snowflakes flood Mambilla town after downpour

While most people are grappling with humidity occasioned by the scorching sun at this time of the year in most parts of the country, residents of Gembu, headquarters of Sardauna Local Government Area of Taraba state are witnessing constant rainfall. They are not just experiencing early rainfall, but also witnessing downpours of snowflakes and ice pellets.

Known for its all year cold weather, Gembu is situated on the Mambilla Plateau, which sits 1600 metres above sea level. While the Plateau remains one of the leading tourism destinations, the country currently boasts of,  its untapped potentials have remained neglected over the years. However, inhabitants of the area, who are mostly farmers and cattle rearers never cease to celebrate the beautiful gift of nature as paradise.

Common features peculiar to the inhabitants of the area include wearing winter jackets, head warmers and gloves all year round. However, on Monday, while many were going about their normal businesses, the clouds treated the inhabitants to an unexpected hail storm. The rain which started around 3.pm, lasted for four hours before it subsided, allowing the residents of Gembu and its environs to gather ice balls left in its wake.

A resident of Jalingo who happened to be in Gembu at the time it rained said the experience was worth the trip. “My home town is blessed. I don’t think i will be returning to Jalingo anytime soon because it is hot compared to what we have here.