Heatwave: ‘How you can protect yourself’

As temperatures rise across Nigeria, doctors have warned that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can trigger life-threatening conditions, worsen existing illnesses and increase the risk of complications among children, older people and those living with chronic diseases.

The concerns come amid growing global attention to El Niño, a recurring climate phenomenon characterised by the warming of sea-surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean. The phenomenon influences weather patterns across different parts of the world, including temperature and rainfall, although its effects vary from one region to another.

In its October 8, 2026 update, the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said El Niño was strengthening, with a strong to very strong event likely to persist through January to March 2027.

The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) has also warned that the phenomenon could significantly alter global rainfall and temperature patterns, increasing the risks of extreme weather events.

Weekend Trust reports that although El Niño is an important climate factor, its presence does not, by itself, establish the cause of extreme temperatures in Nigeria.

The health risks of prolonged heat exposure range from dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke to kidney injury and complications involving the heart and respiratory system. In parts of northern Nigeria, the hot, dry season also raises concerns about cerebrospinal meningitis, an infection that can spread rapidly and cause death if treatment is delayed.

The health risks range from dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke to kidney injury and complications involving the heart and respiratory system. In parts of northern Nigeria, the hot, dry season also raises concerns about cerebrospinal meningitis, an infection that can spread rapidly and cause death if treatment is delayed.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) identifies extreme heat as a major environmental and occupational health hazard, warning that it can worsen cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory illnesses and other existing conditions.

In a chat with Weekend Trust, a medical doctor, Godwin Ekuwke, warned about the health consequences of prolonged heat exposure.

“Infants, young children, older adults, pregnant women and people with chronic illnesses are particularly vulnerable to extreme heat and its associated health complications,” he said.

He said one of the most immediate consequences of extreme heat is dehydration, which occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in.

“The human body regulates its temperature partly through sweating. As sweat evaporates from the skin, it helps cool the body. However, prolonged exposure to high temperatures, particularly during strenuous physical activity, can increase fluid loss and leave the body struggling to maintain its normal temperature,” he said.

Gbenga Ojo, a public health physician, said “the heatwave and scorching sun experienced by residents could also trigger severe dehydration and respiratory infections aside from high temperatures”.

He urged people to drink water regularly and avoid exhaustion during periods of unusually hot weather.

Ojo said the warning is particularly relevant to people who work outdoors and may spend several hours under direct sunlight without adequate breaks.

“Farmers working on plantations, construction workers on exposed sites, market traders and traffic officers may face considerable heat exposure, especially when physical exertion coincides with high environmental temperatures.

“Without sufficient water, rest and opportunities to cool down, such workers can develop heat exhaustion,” he said.

He said symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea and muscle cramps. “Some people may feel faint or experience a rapid heartbeat.”

“Heatstroke is considerably more dangerous. It occurs when the body’s temperature regulation fails, causing its core temperature to rise to a dangerous level.

“Warning signs may include confusion, seizures, collapse or loss of consciousness. A person suffering from heatstroke needs emergency medical attention because the condition can damage the brain, kidneys, heart and other organs,” he said.

Speaking on the urgency of responding to severe symptoms, Dr Benjamin Taiwo, said, “Heatstroke is a medical emergency, especially when a person develops confusion, collapse or altered consciousness. Seek emergency care immediately and begin safe cooling while help is arranged.”

He said advice people may initially mistake heat-related illness for ordinary tiredness or the effects of a demanding day at work.

“However, someone who becomes confused or collapses after prolonged exposure to heat should not simply be allowed to sleep or recover without assistance. The person should be moved to a cooler environment, and emergency medical help should be sought immediately. Cooling should begin while assistance is being arranged.

“If the person is unconscious or confused, fluids should not be forced into their mouth because they may choke,” he said

Kidney injury

A nephrologist, Kehinde Ogunsanya, said the kidneys depend on adequate blood flow to function properly, adding that severe dehydration can reduce blood flow to these organs, potentially impairing their ability to filter waste from the blood.

She said people living with chronic kidney disease may be especially vulnerable, although their fluid intake must be guided by their individual medical needs.

“This distinction is important because advice to drink more water may not be suitable for everyone. Patients with advanced kidney disease or heart failure who have been prescribed fluid restrictions should follow their doctors’ instructions,” she said.

Meningitis, malaria, other diseases

Beyond dehydration and heatstroke, the hot, dry season in Nigeria raises concerns about infectious diseases, particularly cerebrospinal meningitis.

Nigeria is part of Africa’s meningitis belt, a region where outbreaks of meningococcal disease occur periodically.

The disease involves inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses and other organisms, although bacterial meningitis is particularly dangerous because it can progress rapidly and become fatal.

The relationship between meningitis and weather requires careful explanation.

Hot, dry conditions, low humidity, and dust are associated with increased meningococcal disease risk in the African meningitis belt. However, heat itself does not directly cause meningitis. The disease results from infection, and transmission can occur through respiratory droplets or throat secretions during close contact.

In a report published by Premium Times on March 1, 2026, Richard Jonathan, a medical practitioner in Borno State, discussed the recurring challenges associated with extreme heat in northern Nigeria.

He identified dehydration, heat exhaustion and occasional heatstroke among the health problems associated with prolonged heat exposure.

Jonathan also pointed to respiratory and eye conditions associated with dust exposure, including allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis and the worsening of asthma symptoms.

His observations underline the fact that the effects of hot weather can extend beyond the temperature itself. Dust, poor ventilation and existing environmental conditions may compound the risks.

The meningitis risk is particularly concerning in crowded settings, including schools, boarding facilities, religious gatherings and poorly ventilated homes.

People should watch for symptoms such as sudden fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, vomiting, sensitivity to light, confusion and seizures.

In infants, symptoms may include unusual irritability, poor feeding, excessive sleepiness or a bulging soft spot on the head.

Malaria is another illness that requires attention, although its relationship with heat is more complicated than is sometimes suggested.

Temperature, rainfall, humidity, mosquito breeding conditions and human behaviour all influence malaria transmission. The effects vary by location, meaning that a heatwave does not automatically result in a malaria outbreak.

Similarly, cholera and other waterborne diseases are not caused directly by high temperatures. They result from infection, often through contaminated water or food. However, water shortages and inadequate sanitation during prolonged dry spells can make it more difficult for households to maintain safe hygiene practices.

How Nigerians can protect themselves

Doctors say individuals, employers and government authorities all have a role to play in reducing heat-related illnesses.

For individuals, one of the most important precautions is to reduce exposure to extreme heat, particularly during the hottest hours of the day.

People who undertake strenuous outdoor activities should, where possible, schedule them for cooler periods, such as early morning or later in the evening.

Dr Ekuwke urged Nigerians to drink adequate, safe water, wear lightweight clothing, improve indoor ventilation and reduce strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest periods.

He said, “People should drink water regularly rather than waiting until they become extremely thirsty. Those who sweat heavily during work or exercise may need additional fluids.

“However, individuals with medical conditions that require fluid restrictions should consult their healthcare providers about how best to manage hydration during hot weather.

“Loose-fitting, lightweight clothing can help improve comfort, while hats, shade and other forms of protection can reduce direct exposure to sunlight.

“At home, residents should reduce the amount of direct sunlight entering rooms during the hottest periods. Curtains, blinds and other shading measures can help limit indoor heat accumulation.

“Where outdoor air is cooler than indoor air, opening windows can improve ventilation. However, where outdoor conditions are hotter, residents may need to keep direct sunlight out and limit the entry of hot air.”

“Parents should ensure that children are not exposed unnecessarily to direct sunlight and are dressed appropriately for the weather. Children who become unusually weak, drowsy or irritable should receive prompt attention.

“No child should be left inside a parked vehicle, even briefly, because temperatures can rise rapidly.

“Older adults, pregnant women and people with chronic illnesses may also need additional assistance during periods of extreme heat. Family members and neighbours should check on those who live alone or have difficulty accessing water and cooler spaces.”

He added that, “At workplaces, employers should provide drinking water, shaded rest areas and regular breaks for people working outdoors.”

Residents react

Beyond the medical concerns raised by health experts, residents across different occupations say rising temperatures have disrupted their daily activities, affected their sleep and exposed them to discomfort.

A trader, Tunji Benjamin, said the intense heat often leaves him physically exhausted while attending to customers.

“The heat has become unbearable, especially in the afternoon. Sometimes, I feel dizzy and weak while attending to customers. There are days I have to sit down for a few minutes because I feel as though my strength has left me.

“Even when I drink water, I still feel uncomfortable because the sun is so intense. It is affecting how long I can stay in the market and do my business,” Benjamin said.

A motorcyclist, who simply identified himself as Joseph, said he had little option but to remain exposed to the sun because his livelihood depended on riding throughout the day.

“As someone who rides a motorcycle for a living, I cannot avoid the sun because I spend almost the entire day on the road. These days, the heat is so much that I sweat continuously, and sometimes I develop headaches. There are occasions when I have to park under a tree or by the roadside to rest. But if I don’t work, I don’t make money, so I have little choice,” he said.

A civil servant, Promise Oluwaseun, said the rising temperatures had affected her sleep pattern and concentration at work.

“The heat has been affecting my sleep. Sometimes, even at night, the room remains hot, and I find it difficult to sleep comfortably. I wake up several times sweating, and by morning, I already feel tired. It also affects my concentration at work because I sometimes experience headaches and general discomfort. When there is no electricity to power the fan the situation becomes worse.” Oluwaseun said.

Similarly, a mother of four, Mosunmola Ojo, said she was increasingly concerned about how the intense heat was affecting her children’s well-being.

“As a mother, I am particularly worried about my children because of the intense heat. They sweat a lot, become uncomfortable and sometimes complain of headaches. I have to ensure they drink water regularly and take their baths more often. Even at night, they struggle to sleep because of the temperature.

“I am worried about how prolonged exposure to this kind of heat could affect their health,” she said.