By Eteteonline
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a health warning to Nigerians because of the early rainfall that is occurring in some areas of the country.
According to NiMet, the rainfall is “pseudo rain,” which indicates that the rains are erratic and brief and do not yet fall during the official rainy season. These early showers are predicted to be short-lived, followed by a dry spell, according to NiMet. If ingested, it might be detrimental to human health.
The water is not deemed suitable for drinking or direct eating because the ground is still dry, and the typical accumulation of the wet season has not preceded this early rain.
The Director of Weather Services at NiMet, Professor Vincent Weli, said: “People in areas where rains are currently falling are advised against consuming the water because it could be very harmful to their health.”
Experts point out that even clear rainwater can contain dangerous bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can lead to gastrointestinal disorders.
Chemicals, heavy metals, and airborne pollutants that cling to raindrops as they fall might be harmful if consumed untreated.
Because the initial rains frequently carry dust and contaminants from trees, roofs, and the atmosphere into any water collection, this is particularly true when rain falls just before the start of the rainy season.
The main takeaway from NiMet is that it could be dangerous for Nigerians to drink rainwater straight during these early downpours.
In order to lower the danger of contracting waterborne illnesses, rainwater that must be used for drinking later in the season should be appropriately filtered and treated (e.g., boiling, disinfection).
Since this rain is unreliable for crops, farmers are urged not to begin planting just yet.
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