Assessment of Heatwave Frequency and Human Health Impacts in Kano State

Heatwave events in tropical environments, while less studied than in temperate regions, carry significant public health risks particularly for vulnerable populations including the elderly, outdoor workers, and children. This study assesses the frequency, duration, and intensity of heatwave events in Kano State and documents associated health impacts using daily maximum temperature data from NiMet's Kano Airport station for the period 2016 to 2023. Heatwaves were defined as periods of at least three consecutive days where the daily maximum temperature exceeds the 90th percentile of the historical temperature distribution for the corresponding calendar period. Health data, including hospital admissions for heat-related illnesses, were obtained from Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital and three selected General Hospitals in Kano Metropolis. Results identify 14 heatwave events during the study period, with the longest episode spanning 11 days in April 2022 and maximum temperatures reaching 42.8 degrees Celsius. Statistically significant positive correlations are found between heatwave duration and hospital admissions for hyperthermia, dehydration, and heat stroke. Market traders and construction workers are identified as the occupational groups most frequently presenting with heat-related conditions. The study recommends development of a Kano State heat action plan incorporating threshold-based public health alerts distributed via NiMet advisory bulletins. Keywords: heatwave, Kano, public health, temperature extreme, heat stroke.