It’s quite clear, the weather no longer follows a strict calendar. From what was to be the beginning of harmattan in December and January, there has been an exception in recent times.
Even in its unpredictability, one thing remains constant, when these conditions like the harmattan strikes, they come with health risks that leave many vulnerable.
For weeks now, many have been waiting for the familiar chill and dusty winds that signal the arrival of the season. That notwithstanding, areas like the Northern and Eastern parts of the country are witnessing brief appearances.
However, the South and other parts of the country are barely feeling its presence due to what experts describe as climate variations.
According to the Ghana Meteorological Agency looking ahead of 2026, a transition into a generally weak harmattan season is anticipated. They warn that the public should remain alert for occasional episodes of severe conditions.
While the weather pattern remains uncertain, health experts say the risks associated with the harmattan do not disappear with the delay.
The head of public health department at the Ghana Police Hospital, Dr. Frank Duodu in an interview with 3 News said the delay should not be a moment to relax.
“We need to boost our immunity and boosting our immunity would mean that we are eating very balanced diet and then taking in meals that have a lot of vitamins and minerals. So, vegetables and fruits are very essential. Some of the food items that we need to take that will also promote our hydration are fruits, watermelons, the citrus fruits, cucumbers, all. And then porridge, soup. These ones will help us hydrate our system and then also reduce the rate at which these viral microorganisms take over the system,” he said.
He further cautioned that some everyday habits, often seen as harmless during the harmattan, poses additional health risks.
“The weather may be cold and so most of us may tend to want to use warm water. If it’s lukewarm, that’s fine. But if it’s too hot or warm, then chances are you are likely to rub your skin off essential oils, natural oils.
Because the weather becomes dry and hot, we tend to love to use air conditioning we tend to use the fan. Between the two, I would say that if you have the opportunity, you’d rather use the air condition. Because the weather is dry, you need something that will humidify your environment.”
As schools have reopened, workers going back to their routines, and communities facing increased workloads, experts say readiness is key. Hygienic practices such constant handwashing, wearing of facemasks and keeping the environment well-ventilated is highly recommended by experts during this period.
Because, whether the harmattan arrives early or late, meek or mild, its impact can be just as unforgiving especially for those caught unprepared.
