Harmattan in Ghana: How to Protect Your Home and Family

Ghana is preparing for another dry season, with the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) warning of hotter, drier and dustier conditions from late November 2026.

The Harmattan season often brings dusty winds, low humidity and uncomfortable weather. It can affect people’s breathing, skin and eyes, while dry vegetation and unsafe household practices can increase the risk of fires.

Although the weather may be difficult to avoid, families can take simple steps to protect their homes and loved ones.

Fine dust can enter through open windows, doors, louvre blades and other gaps. It settles on furniture, bedding, food and household equipment.

Do not burn rubbish or use smoky materials indoors as a way of dealing with dust. Smoke can make indoor air quality worse.

Low humidity can cause dry skin, cracked lips, irritated eyes and discomfort in the nose and throat. People with asthma and other respiratory conditions may also experience worsening symptoms.

The Ghana Health Service has previously advised the public to take precautions during Harmattan, including drinking enough water, using moisturisers and reducing exposure to dust.

Parents should pay particular attention to young children, older family members and people with asthma or other existing health conditions.

People with asthma should follow their prescribed treatment plan and keep their medication available. Anyone experiencing serious breathing difficulties should seek medical attention promptly.

Children may spend time playing outdoors without recognising the effects of dusty conditions.

Parents and guardians should limit outdoor activities when the air is particularly dusty, especially for children with asthma or other breathing problems.

Keep children hydrated and protect their skin from excessive dryness. During cool Harmattan mornings, dress younger children in suitable clothing to keep them comfortable.

Older relatives and people who are unwell should also be checked regularly. If someone develops a persistent cough, breathing difficulty or unusual symptoms, seek advice from a health professional.

GMet has also warned of increased seasonal meningitis risk, particularly in northern Ghana. A high fever accompanied by a severe headache or stiff neck requires urgent medical attention.

Fire prevention is especially important during the dry season because dry grass, leaves and other materials can catch fire easily.

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) advises households to avoid leaving cooking unattended, keep flammable materials away from heat sources and have suitable fire extinguishers accessible.

Every household should have a clear escape route and ensure that family members know what to do if a fire breaks out.

Gas safety should not be overlooked during the Harmattan season.

The Ghana National Fire Service has cautioned households against keeping LPG cylinders inside kitchens, particularly in enclosed spaces where a leak could create serious danger.

If you smell gas, do not light a match, operate electrical switches or use equipment that could create a spark. Keep people away from the area and seek assistance from a qualified professional.

Dry grass and vegetation can allow fires to spread quickly, particularly when strong winds are blowing.

Do not burn rubbish or dry vegetation around your home, farm or community. Instead, use safe waste-disposal methods and clear dry materials from areas around buildings.

Report uncontrolled fires immediately. Do not attempt to fight a large or fast-spreading fire yourself.

Power interruptions can lead families to use candles, lanterns and other alternative lighting sources.

Rechargeable lamps and torches are safer options where available. If candles must be used, place them on stable, non-flammable surfaces and keep them away from children, curtains and other materials that can catch fire.

Keep emergency contacts accessible and make sure your family knows the nearest safe exit from the house.

In Ghana, call the Ghana National Fire Service on 192 or the national emergency number 112 when there is a fire emergency.

Before the dry season becomes intense, check that your household has:

Harmattan is a familiar part of Ghana’s weather, but its effects should not be taken lightly.

Keeping dust under control, drinking enough water, protecting vulnerable family members and practising fire safety can make a significant difference.

Preparation should begin before the dusty winds become intense. A few simple habits can help keep your home cleaner, your family healthier and your surroundings safer throughout the dry season.

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Ishmeal Ntakor is a Ghanaian journalist, blogger, digital marketer, content creator, and media professional with interests in journalism, digital communication,social development, and storytelling. He has experience in researching, writing, editing, and publishing news stories, features, articles, and digital content. His work covers current affairs, human-interest stories, entertainment, sports, social issues, and community developments. Ishmeal is also the founder and personality behind NationsBlogger, a digital media and blogging platform focused on news, entertainment, sports, trending stories, tourism, social issues, and public-interest content. Through his media work, he uses digital platforms to inform, educate, and connect with audiences. Educational Background Ishmeal has an interdisciplinary academic background spanning healthcare, digital marketing, and journalism. His qualifications include: -Degree in Digital Marketing – IPMC College of Technology Higher National Diploma (HND) in Journalism and Communication while his studies in Digital Marketing and Journalism have strengthened his abilities in communication, media production, digital strategy, content creation, and online storytelling. He has developed skills in SEO, social media marketing, Google Ads, PPC, content strategy, social media content creation, YouTube scripting, online journalism, and digital brand development. Beyond journalism and digital marketing, Ishmeal has a strong interest in tourism, history, exploration, interviews, current affairs, entertainment, and community development. As a media professional, Ishmeal believes in research, responsible reporting, accuracy, continuous learning, and telling stories that matter. Ishmeal Ntakor is committed to growing NationsBlogger and using journalism and digital media to inform, educate, and engage audiences in Ghana and beyond