The Kano State Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has issued an urgent public advisory as the Harmattan season arrives in “full force”, bringing hazardous air quality and a significant spike in health risks to the region.
In a statement released by the commissioner, Dr Dahir Hashim, the Ministry noted that while shifting climate patterns had initially delayed the season’s onset, the weather has now shifted dramatically.
The state is currently experiencing intense haze, high dust concentrations, plunging temperatures, and harsh, dry winds.
The ministry warned that these conditions have severely degraded air quality, leading to a surge in respiratory complications, eye irritations, and skin dryness.
Officials are particularly concerned about “vulnerable populations”, including children, the elderly, and individuals living with pre-existing conditions such as asthma and chronic bronchitis.
“Exposure to these conditions can trigger acute attacks and lead to hospitalisation,” the advisory stated, urging those with chronic conditions to keep their medications and inhalers close at hand.
To mitigate the impact of the dusty weather, the ministry recommended several preventive measures for the public.
These include the wearing of face masks when outdoors to filter out fine dust particles, limiting outdoor activities during peak haze periods and keeping doors and windows closed to prevent dust from entering homes, maintaining adequate water intake and using moisturisers to prevent skin and lips from cracking and seeking prompt help if experiencing persistent coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, or difficulty breathing.
Beyond health risks, the intense haze has significantly reduced visibility on major roads, prompting motorists to exercise extreme caution.
The ministry also issued a stern warning against the open burning of waste and indiscriminate dumping.
Such activities, officials say, further worsen the already poor air quality and exacerbate public health risks during the dry season.
“The ministry will continue to monitor air quality conditions and strengthen public sensitisation,” Hashim stated. “Community cooperation remains essential in keeping our environment clean, safe, and resilient during this season.”
As the cold, dusty weather is expected to persist, residents are encouraged to stay informed through official government channels and to prioritise their health and safety.
