Chief Weather Forecaster at the Ghana Meteorological Agency, Felicity Ahafianyo, has cautioned Ghanaians about the onset of the harmattan season, emphasizing the need for heightened awareness and safety measures due to dryness and increased concentration of dust particles in the air.
She stressed the risks associated with open fires during this period, as the dry winds and arid environment create a conducive atmosphere for wildfires and advised individuals to exercise extreme caution and avoid activities that could lead to uncontrolled fires.
She also underscored the importance of protecting food and water supplies from dust contamination and encouraged people to cover their meals and beverages adequately to prevent exposure to dust particles, which can pose significant health risks.
For those engaging in outdoor activities, protective measures such as wearing sunglasses to shield the eyes from dust and frequent face washing with clean water are recommended. This is particularly crucial as dust carried from the ground could irritate the eyes and skin.
Again, people with respiratory conditions are urged to consult healthcare professionals for advice on managing their health during this season, as the dusty conditions could exacerbate underlying issues. Those without urgent outdoor commitments are advised to stay indoors as much as possible to minimize exposure.
She also drew attention to reduced visibility on roads, with forecasts indicating visibility levels between one and five kilometers nationwide. In regions such as the Ashanti, Northern, Western North, and parts of Bono East, and Oti, visibility could drop due to thick mist, posing challenges for motorists and urged drivers to reduce their speed, use their headlights appropriately, and maintain vigilance on the road.
