By Godwin Otang, Sylvia Akpan, And Etido Okon
Following the current heat waves being witnessed across the country, the first drop of rain has greeted the city of Calabar, the capital city of Cross River, Nigeria, leaving residents with a leap of excitement.
Residents in divergent views say the downpour witnessed on Wednesday (last night) is a welcome development and will reduce the intensity of the heat, dust, and other health hazards.
Our reporters went round the city and observed that the rain was mild but had significant acceptability amongst residents.
At Yellow Duke and Palm Streets, both in Calabar South Local Government Area, Benita Atiafale, a student of the University of Cross River State, (UNICROSS) expressed excitement saying the pour is a sign of relief at the hot weather.
“There are too many rashes all over my body. I was very happy because it was about to rain and everywhere will be cool and calm and the weather will be conducive for us. Even when I normally go to school, the sun on my school was as if Calabar was next to the sun.”
A launderer, Donald Akpaudo, shared Benita’s sentiments, expressing that the rainy season will bring great economic value and help him save some money for his business.
At the Otokangha area of Calabar South LGA, our reporters observed that the rain was not intense and there was no flood. The usually impassable streets on rainy days are passable because the rain was mild.
Similarly, in the heart of Calabar Municipal LGA, housing Marian, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) way, Mary Slessor, Target, Diamond Hill, and MCC, residents breathe signs of relief and expect more as they gradually drift into the season.
“I am happy about the rain, I thank God because it’s been very hot. Even when I am driving I feel the heart,” Mr. Clement, a taxi driver explained.
A landlord at Ndidem Usang-Iso Road, Chief Effiom Bassey, said the weather will stabilize after two or more rainfalls:
“The weather will soon stabilize. By the time it rains two or more times, the weather will be fine. Trust Calabar rain, as it has started now, no going back,” he chuckled.
However, market women were not left out in the expression as traders at the Watt Market were seen exchanging pleasantries and sharing the news of the late-night rain.
One identified as Madam Esther told CrossRiverWatch that “God should continue to give us rain, we appreciate him. The weather has been too hot.”
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