By Dada Ahmed in Lokoja
The current biting effect of hot weather in Lokoja, capital of kogi state, has turned to blessing in disguise as the development has boosted the sale of “pure water” in the area, thus putting smiles on the faces of most sellers of the essential commodity, The Reporters report.
Investigation conducted by The Reporters’ correspondent in Lokoja on Sunday indicates that as residents, especially the low income earners who cannot afford cooling systems such as air conditioner in their homes reel under the yoke of excessive heat, “pure water” sellers are counting on their gains, smiling to banks.
A seller of the commodity, who opted for ceiling of identity, said: ” Though we, the sellers of pure water are also feeling the effects of the terrible heat in Lokoja, our consolation, however, is that the increase in consumption of pure water,occasioned by the current weather situation has increased our sales.
“Before the heat set in proper in February, I was making about N20,000 profit per day,but now I can boast of about N30,000 and N40,000 profit per day from the sale of pure water.
Medical experts identify stroke,exhaustion,cramps and rashes as among others as heat related illnesses.
According to them, signs and symptoms of heat related illnesses include: heavy sweat,cold,pale, clamming skin,nausea or voting, body weakness, dizziness and headache.
They advise people experiencing heat to move to cool place,loose clothes,use wet clothes on the body,take cool water and seek medical attention,if symptoms get worse.
Meanwhile, as at the time of filing this report at about 9:12 a.m,
Lokojaa weather focast showed 40 degree celsius.
The weather focast for the area in the last 72 hours showed 102/76 degree farienghight, partly sunny and hot, prompting weather experts’ warning to members of the public to be wary of the danger of dehydration and heat stroke, if stay outside homes for extended time on Sunday.
Some residents who spoke with the online publication in Lokoja called on the state government to put in place measures aimed at checking the effects of heat on the public.
