Assessment of heatwave ıntensity and associated human responses in Kano Metropolis Northwestern Nigeria (2001-2020)

Abstract

There is an increasing concerned upon the increase in annual mean surface temperature over the years. The high increases in temperature brings about the occurrence of heatwaves especially in the tropical cities of the world including Kano. A research was conducted to assess the prevalence of heatwaves and associated human responses concerning its occurences between 2001-2020 in Kano metropolis, Northwestern Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling technique was applied from the eight local government areas of the metropolis while data concerning heatwaves occurrences were obtained from International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA) data base. Self-designed questionaire was used as tool for collecting data on human responses to heatwaves in the area. The year 2020 experienced high intensity of heatwaves (consecutive 30days) with temperature of 41.7oC. The heatwaves occur mostly in April and May. The human responses to heatwaves in Kano metropolis showed that during heat wave period people experienced mental tiredness, uncomfortability for working, increased in heat related diseases, decreased in work productivity and increased spate of social upheavals. These therefore implied that, heat waves can be regarded as one of the factors that affect socio-econmic settings of the area negatively. Thus, there is the need of orienting people on the inherent dangers of heatwaves on human well being in the area.