The weather man has predicted it, and in parts of Africa like Sierra Leone, it has already come to pass. The dreaded El nino is almost here and is predicted to be the worst in 40 years. There isn’t much that can be done to avoid it but here are a few tips to help you keep dry during your travels. Don’t forget to tweet Jovago.com using the hashtag #ElJovago for tips on how to get through the rainy season.
1. Gear up!
Make sure you have a strong umbrella, heavy rain coat and some boots. This will prevent you from being drenched while on the road. With the intensity expected, even the short walk from the car to the house could leave you soaked.
2. Keep Warm
The only thing worse than travelling during rainy weather, is travelling in rainy weather with the flu. Stock up on warm sweaters and heavy jackets. Don’t take any chances. El Nino is known to be accompanied by strong winds, don’t be left unguarded from the chill.
3. Waterproof documents
Keep all your important documents – vaccination certificates, passports, travel reservations- in a waterproof wallet, or simply wrap them in plastic and seal them with celo-tape. You don’t want to get stranded because your passport is drenched and no longer usable.
4. Emergency supplies
It’s always a good idea to keep some emergency supplies in your car and office. With El nino comes power outages and in extreme cases flooded roads. A good emergency kit has a blanket, flash-light with extra batteries or solar lamp, power bank, first-aid kit, a whistle, emergency numbers, energy bars and drinking water. Throw in a good book too so you don’t get bored if you are stuck somewhere.