Bauchi Warns Residents As Seasonal Dust Haze Sets In

The Bauchi State Environmental Protection Agency (BASEPA) has issued a public advisory urging residents of Bauchi State and surrounding areas to take necessary health and safety precautions as the seasonal dust haze associated with the winter period spreads across Northern Nigeria.

The director-general of BASEPA, Dr Mahmood Muhammad, gave the warning yesterday during an interview with journalists, explaining that the annual haze is caused by fine particulate matter carried by strong winds from the Sahel region into the state.

According to him, the dust haze blankets many towns in Bauchi State and neighbouring areas, leading to reduced air quality and poor visibility throughout the season.

Bose warned that prolonged exposure to dust-laden air poses serious health risks, particularly respiratory conditions such as persistent coughing, asthma attacks, and other breathing-related illnesses. He noted that children, the elderly, and people with existing medical conditions are the most vulnerable.

He advised residents to wear face masks to limit the inhalation of harmful dust particles and reduce health complications during the period.

The BASEPA boss also pointed out that the haze negatively affects transportation, especially air travel, as reduced visibility often results in flight delays and cancellations.

Beyond health concerns, Dr. Bose cautioned that the dry and windy conditions associated with the season increase the risk of fire outbreaks. He urged residents to avoid open burning of refuse and to handle fire sources with extreme care, warning that strong winds can quickly spread flames and worsen environmental hazards.

He further advised residents to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, a common problem during dry weather, and to maintain clean indoor environments by regularly dusting homes, ensuring proper ventilation, and minimizing exposure to outdoor dust whenever possible.

While acknowledging the inconvenience caused by the dust haze, Dr. Bose reassured residents that the phenomenon is temporary and typically lasts only a few months before normal atmospheric conditions return.