Yaounde dwellers, shaken by continuous drop in temperature

For almost three weeks now, decreasing temperatures in Yaounde have made life unbearable for inhabitants. Marie Virginie, 36, a civil servant, was seen getting out of her brand new Toyota Yaris last Friday, July 18 at about 9:00 a.m. As she got of the car, what caught the eye was a woollen shawl she had across her shoulders. She said she had put on a shawl because of the cold weather. Like her, many other Yaounde inhabitants noticed the weather has become exceptionally cold.

For almost three weeks now, a harsh cold weather has gripped the capital city and sending most inhabitants gnashing their teeth. In spite of the shining sun, people still find it difficult to cope because of the new weather. Due to the cold, many people are complaining of illnesses linked to cold such as flu, excessive sneezing, cough, and cold feet. In order to reduce the impact of the cold, many people put on warm clothing notably pullovers especially when they are outdoors.

Many women put on shawls in the place of pullovers while others go about with mufflers around their necks. Some women have added some glycerine to their body lotions or go for more oily creams even though expensive to keep themselves warm. Many people wonder what can be the cause of the extreme cold weather during this period and for how long the situation will last.

Professor Maurice Tsalefac, Climatologist in the University of Dschang said the weather condition is a typical condition in the southern part of Cameroon. He said this marks the beginning of the dry season characterised by slight rainfall and the duration depends on the on the movement of the anticyclone.

He further explained that the situation seem severe in Yaounde because it is in a relief zone and that can increase the intensity of the cold weather. He however said the duration cannot be determined but it is possible the condition can last till August. Meanwhile individuals are seeking various ways of reducing the impact of the cold on their skin while hoping that the weather condition gets better soon.