The Beauty and Struggles of Harmattan Season...

Climate change and ozone layer depletion has got nothing on my country's weather this period especially in the mornings and nights, most especially my village, lol. I come from a southeastern part of Nigeria, Enugu State and the literal pronunciation and meaning of the state is 'Elu-ugwu' which means 'on top of the mountain.'

This is part of the reason why some parts of the state is still battling with sourcing borehole water because for you to have one you'll literally dig till your hands wear out! It's also the reason why this season of harmattan is always extreme In this state compared to other southeastern states, but, not up to the freezing type overseas with snows falling.

Harmattan is here again, bringing it's unique mix of beauty, challenges and adaptation. It marks the transition between rainy season and the dry season. Asides from the chilling cold that comes with it at nights and early mornings, it is a time when the atmosphere is filled with dry, dusty wind blowing, yet often scorching heat during the day. Travelling from Anambra to my hometown during this period, one thing I never forget is my woollen sweater, lol.

Protecting my family is the ultimate aim to me in this season so that no one celebrate the festive period in bed as s result of the weather...
There are many reasons why we all need to be protective of our health this period:

• Respiratory Diseases:

The fine dust particles in the air can trigger allergies and worsen respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis making it difficult for people with underlying conditions.
This is also the season that increases the risk of most respiratory infections like Pneumonia.

Picture is Mine

For this, I make sure go always go around with my face mask on as they provide protective defence against the fine dust particles.
Also, maintaining a clean environment using damp clothes to wipe clean all our rooms will be helpful too.

• Dry Skin And Crack Lips:

This is one of the most common challenges that comes with the harmattan season and this is because of the low humidity that comes with the season.

For this, I always try to stay as hydrated as possible and use skin moisturizers regularly.
Lip balms would be a great addition if you suffer the crack lips, for some reasons, it doesn't happen to me.

• Eye Irritation:

The cornea of the eye gets irritated by the dust winds causing redness and itching which could be discomforting.

For this it will be nice to get sunglasses not just to protect you from the sun rays but also helping you prevent occurrence of some diseases.

• Fire Hazards:

With the farmlands dry and green vegetables turning dry, it makes it easier for slight spark of lights to turn into big ones aided by the winds blowing fiercely.

For this, I tried as much as possible to clear the grasses around our building.

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Despite the challenges that comes with this harmattan season, it's a season we all long for especially as it coincides with the festive periods.

Thanks for reading and have a nice day 👍
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