As Nigeria braces for one of the most intense harmattan seasons in years, the cold, dry winds sweeping across the country are making their mark in cities like Abuja, Lagos, Kano, and Port Harcourt. Residents have been vocal about the unique challenges posed by this season’s unusual strength—ranging from the discomfort of allergies to humorous anecdotes about clothes sliding off due to static electricity. While some revel in the crisp, refreshing air, others are finding it difficult to adapt to the dramatic shifts in weather. As the harmattan season intensifies, it has become a topic of conversation, sparking reflections on its effects on daily life, health, and society.
A Harsh, Yet Refreshing Cold: The Harmattan Hits Hard
This year, the harmattan season has felt unusually harsh, catching many off guard. Characterized by cold, dry winds that blow from the Sahara Desert, the harmattan typically sweeps through the West African region between late November and March. But this season, according to residents across major Nigerian cities, the cold has been more biting than usual.
In Abuja, the capital city, the mornings are particularly chilly. “You could feel it immediately—this isn’t just a little breeze,” says Amina Mohammed, a local resident. “It cuts through everything. My skin is dry, and I have to layer up more than usual.”
Lagos, which is typically more humid, is also not spared. While the mornings are cold, evenings often present a stark contrast. By late afternoon, temperatures rise significantly, leaving residents reaching for fans and air conditioning. “It’s like the weather has a personality disorder,” says Chuka Okeke, a Lagos-based entrepreneur. “It’s cold in the morning, then sweltering by evening.”
Health Struggles: The Impact of Harmattan on the Body
While many find the harmattan season a welcome change from the heat, it has also brought a series of health-related issues. The dry air has exacerbated respiratory problems and skin conditions, particularly for individuals with allergies or asthma. Medical professionals have reported an uptick in consultations during this period.
Dr. Ifeanyi Nwosu, a Lagos-based physician, explains, “The harmattan causes the air to dry out, which can lead to nasal congestion, dry throat, and aggravate asthma. I’ve seen more patients complaining of irritated skin, dry eyes, and sinus issues this year.”
People are stocking up on moisturizers, lip balms, and humidifiers to deal with the effects. “I’ve never been this dehydrated in my life,” says Ngozi, a resident of Port Harcourt. “The constant need to moisturize and drink water is exhausting. My skin is cracking and my lips are chapped.”
The Humor of Harmattan: Clothes and Static Electricity
Despite the inconveniences, the harmattan season has sparked some light-hearted conversations, especially around the quirky side effects of the weather. One common experience is static electricity, which has become a source of amusement for many residents. Clothing sliding off unexpectedly, especially when one is bundled up in layers, has become a humorous yet frustrating issue.
“Every time I try to hang my jacket on the chair, it just slides right off,” says Tunde, a student in Kano. “It’s the harmattan’s way of reminding you that it’s still in charge. Static is a serious problem.”
Social media platforms have been flooded with memes and posts about harmattan fashion struggles, with people sharing photos of their clothes and other objects “floating” due to static electricity. It’s clear that while the weather poses significant discomfort, it also provides some much-needed comic relief.
The Unpredictable Weather: A Source of Concern and Curiosity
The unpredictable nature of the harmattan season this year is one of the most discussed aspects. In Lagos, the drop in temperature in the mornings has often caught residents by surprise, only for the day to heat up again by evening. This shift has left people wondering whether climate patterns are becoming more volatile, or if this is just a passing anomaly.
Dr. Kofi Afriyie, a climate scientist based in Accra, notes, “While harmattan itself is a regular seasonal occurrence, extreme fluctuations in temperature and weather patterns are becoming more common due to global climate change. These dramatic changes may not be typical for all harmattan seasons, but they certainly signal shifts in our environment.”
People are now more conscious of the need to adapt to these changes, with many trying to figure out the best ways to protect themselves from the extremes. “I’m switching between layers of clothing as the day goes on,” says Toyin, a fashion consultant in Lagos. “It’s about managing the layers, but it’s also a reminder that we have to stay alert with how we deal with our environment.”
Living with Harmattan: Strategies for Coping
As the harmattan season intensifies, residents across the country have developed various strategies for coping with the effects. From stocking up on moisturizing products to adjusting daily routines, Nigerians are finding ways to adapt to the unique challenges this weather presents.
“Staying hydrated is key,” says Adebola, a teacher in Abuja. “I also wear extra layers and keep a scarf or shawl with me just in case. It’s all about flexibility.” Some people are also increasing their intake of vitamin C to ward off the cold-induced flu symptoms, while others are relying on herbal remedies that are believed to alleviate respiratory discomfort.
Social spaces are also evolving. In places like Lagos, cafes and open-air markets are seeing an increase in demand for hot beverages like tea and coffee, as people gather to stay warm while sharing experiences about the season.
