The Kano government has issued an advisory urging residents to maintain adequate preventive health measures amid harsh harmattan, characterised by intense haze, dust concentration, cold temperatures and dry winds.

In an advisory issued by the commissioner of environment and climate change, Dahir Hashim, over the weekend, the government advised residents to limit outdoor exposure, wear nose masks and maintain proper hydration.

“Residents are strongly advised to take preventive measures: limit outdoor exposure during peak haze periods, wear face masks when outdoors, keep doors and windows closed where possible, maintain adequate hydration, moisturise skin and lips, and seek prompt medical attention when experiencing persistent coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, or breathing difficulty,” Mr Hashim said.

He added that open burning of waste and indiscriminate dumping must be avoided, as these further worsen air pollution and public health risks.

Mr Hashim further pointed out that the rapid shift in climate patterns has delayed the onset of winter this year, with the season now arriving in full force across the state, bringing intense haze, high dust levels, cold temperatures and dry winds. 

The commissioner said, “These conditions significantly degrade air quality and increase the risk of respiratory complications, eye irritation, skin dryness, and reduced visibility on roads.”

According to the statement, the impact is particularly severe for vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and persons living with asthma, chronic bronchitis and other respiratory conditions, where exposure can trigger acute attacks and hospitalisation.

Mr Hashim stressed the need for community cooperation as essential in keeping the environment clean, safe, and resilient during this season, adding the ministry would “continue to monitor air quality conditions, strengthen public sensitisation, and enforce environmental compliance measures to protect public health”.