I was cold; my nostrils were dry from the cold and harsh winds. The sun was out and shining bright, but I was still covered up in multiple clothes. Preparing for the harmattan season in Nigeria is not child’s play. As soon as the harmattan season kicks off in Nigeria, everything changes. The air goes dry and dusty, mornings become chilly, and nights feel even colder. For some, this period brings both excitement and a sense of readiness for the things coming, ringing in the festive season of Christmas for one.
Over the years, I’ve developed simple, practical ways to stay comfortable, healthy, and productive during the harmattan months.
You Can’t Prepare without Understanding the Harmattan
The Harmattan is that period between November and February when dry winds from the Sahara sweep across West Africa. It’s marked by low humidity, dust-filled air, cracked lips, and dry skin. Some of us love it because of the cool weather, while others dread it for the harshness it brings with it.
Some of us fall somewhere in between. We enjoy the calm mornings, but we also acknowledge how much preparation it takes to stay healthy and keep our home in good shape.
Getting My Home Ready
In Enugu, for example, in the southeastern part of the country, when the harmattan hits, we make a few adjustments around the house. Dust becomes a constant visitor, travelling with the wind as soon as the sun hits the sky in the morning, so the first thing we do is deep clean our surroundings. We focus on areas that collect and retain dust easily—windows, curtains, fans, cushions, etc.
To keep the air a bit moist and fresh and reduce dryness for more comfortable breathing, we sometimes place bowls of water around the room. It helps add a little moisture back into the air. For those that can afford it, a humidifier works even better.
Here’s how we typically prepare the home:
| Task | Purpose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Sweep and mop floors daily | Remove dust buildup | Daily |
| Wipe window sills and fans | Prevent dust accumulation | Every 2 days |
| Wash curtains | Keep air cleaner | Weekly |
| Use water bowls or a humidifier. | Add moisture to air | Daily |
| Keep doors and windows closed in windy hours | Limit dust entry | As needed |
These steps may sound simple, but they make a big difference. Breathing cleaner air at home reduces irritation and helps me sleep better.
Taking Care of My Skin and Lips
Harmattan can be brutal on the skin. The dry air pulls moisture out, leaving skin flaky and lips cracked. I’ve learnt that staying hydrated from the inside is just as important as moisturising from the outside.
My skin routine becomes more intentional during this time. I switch from light lotions to thicker creams, usually shea butter or petroleum jelly. I apply them right after bathing, while my skin is still damp—it helps lock in moisture.
For my lips, I always keep a lip balm in my pocket. I prefer natural ones made with beeswax or coconut oil. Drinking enough water also helps. Many people forget to hydrate because the weather feels cool, but dehydration can creep in quietly.
Here’s a quick list of what I use in preparing for the harmattan season in Nigeria:
- Shea butter for my skin
- Coconut oil for hair and body
- Lip balm or Vaseline for lips
- Mild soap to prevent dryness
- Water bottle nearby throughout the day
Dressing for the Weather
Choosing what to wear during harmattan is a balancing act. Mornings are cold, afternoons can get hot, and nights are chilly again. I go for layered clothing that I can adjust easily.
In the mornings, I wear light sweaters or jackets. For outdoor activities, I prefer breathable cotton shirts that don’t trap heat. Covering up helps protect the skin from dust and the cold wind.
I also keep a scarf handy. It’s useful when the air gets dusty, especially while walking or riding on a bike. Sunglasses protect my eyes from fine dust particles that can cause irritation or redness.
Managing Health and Wellness
Harmattan affects the respiratory system more than many people realise. The dust can trigger allergies, colds, and even asthma. That’s why I make sure to stay proactive with my health.
I try to eat fruits rich in vitamin C—like oranges, guavas, and tangerines—to boost my immune system. I also drink warm water in the mornings to soothe my throat.
Whenever possible, I avoid outdoor activities during peak dust hours. If I must go out, I wear a face mask or wrap my nose and mouth with a clean cloth.
| Action | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Drink plenty of water | Prevent dehydration |
| Eat fruits and vegetables | Strengthen immunity |
| Use nose mask outdoors | Reduce dust inhalation |
| Avoid cold drinks | Prevent sore throat |
| Sleep with windows closed | Limit dust exposure |
These habits may sound basic, but they help me stay energetic and avoid the common colds that many people struggle with during the season.
Taking Proper Care of Your Hair
The hair, amongst other things, gets dry too during harmattan. Without proper care, it turns brittle and is susceptible to breakage. You should pay extra attention to your hair routine during this dry season.
Always oil your scalp regularly and reduce your application of harsh shampoos on it. Instead, use mild, moisturising ones and deep-condition your hair for, like, once a week. Covering your hair before going to bed also helps retain moisture and leaves it fresher in the mornings.
For those with natural or textured hair, protective styles like braids or twists can make maintenance easier. Just try and keep yours simple but neat.
Keeping your Household Appliances Safe
The Harmattan wind doesn’t just affect people—it affects almost everything else, including furniture and electronics too. Dust can clog fans, TVs, and even laptops. I wipe these surfaces regularly and store sensitive items in covered spaces.
Wooden furniture tends to crack when it gets too dry. Applying furniture polish or oil can help maintain its shine and prevent damage.
I also make sure to store food properly. The dry air can cause grains and other foods to lose freshness quickly, so I use airtight containers.
Taking Care of your Vehicles during the Harmattan
For anyone who drives or rides, harmattan requires a bit of additional maintenance. The dust can clog filters and reduce visibility on the road.
Here’s what I usually check:
- Clean or replace air filters regularly
- Wash the vehicle often to remove dust
- Keep headlights and mirrors clean
- Check tire pressure frequently
These small steps prevent bigger issues later and keep the ride smooth.
Keeping Cool and Comfy!
The Harmattan mornings can make you feel like staying under the blanket longer, but I’ve learnt to adapt my schedule. I wake up earlier to take advantage of the calm mornings. The weather is cool and quiet—perfect for reading or writing.
To stay comfortable, I keep a flask of warm tea nearby. It helps me stay warm and hydrated at the same time. Green tea, ginger tea, or even simple hot water works well.
When I need to go out, I plan ahead to avoid being caught in dusty conditions. Little things like carrying tissues and hand sanitiser help a lot.
Carrying the Kids and Family Members Along
For those that stay with their families, preparing for the harmattan season in Nigeria becomes a shared obligation. Remind everyone to drink water, use lip balm, and wash their hands all the time. Kids like to play outside, so make sure they cover up properly before heading out to play.
I always keep an emergency kit with important items like balms, moisturisers, and face masks. It helps everyone remember to care for themselves.
Better Safe than Sorry in the Season
For some, the harmattan just comes and goes every year, but preparedness makes it easier to enjoy the season without any uneventfulness. You feel good, your skin is healthy, and your home remains tidy. It’s about being proactive instead of reactive.
When you make time to plan ahead, you see the evidence—like waking up without a dry throat or walking outside without nasal discomfort. Moments like that make the season worthwhile.
Coping with the Harsh Harmattan Season in Nigeria
For many, preparing for the harmattan season in Nigeria has to do with balance. It’s about feeling good in the calm weather while protecting themselves from its harsh challenges. Every year, I learn a new trick—whether it’s a better moisturizer, a new cleaning routine, or a more comfortable morning drink.
Harmattan is part of life in this part of the world, and with the right routine and preparation, it doesn’t have to be harsh. When the winds blow again, you are ready—warm clothes on the line, cream by the bed, and water always within reach. Join the discussion and tell us what you think and how you prepare in your area.
