noun a dry, dusty easterly or northeasterly wind on the West African coast, occurring from December to February.
The harmattan is a dry and dusty wind that blows from the Sahara Desert across West Africa, typically during the winter months. It can cause visibility issues and respiratory problems.
The harmattan can disrupt travel plans due to reduced visibility on roads and at airports. It is important for travelers to be aware of the potential challenges posed by this weather phenomenon.
The harmattan can exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis due to the dust and dry air it carries. It is important for individuals with respiratory issues to take precautions during this period.
In agriculture, the harmattan can have both positive and negative effects. It can bring much-needed moisture to crops in some regions, but in others, it can lead to drought and crop failure.
A writer may use the term 'harmattan' to describe a dry and dusty wind that blows over West Africa during the winter months, influencing the setting and atmosphere of their writing.
A psychologist may refer to the harmattan season as a potential trigger for seasonal affective disorder (SAD) due to its dry and dusty conditions, impacting the mental health of individuals in affected regions.
A meteorologist may study the harmattan wind patterns and its effects on weather conditions in West Africa, providing forecasts and warnings to the public to prepare for the dry and dusty conditions.
A geographer may analyze the impact of harmattan on the geographical features of West Africa, such as desertification and soil erosion, studying the long-term effects of this seasonal phenomenon on the region.