Spatial Variation of Physicochemical Parameters of Rainwater Harvested in Some Communities of Niger Delta due to Different Exposure to Atmospheric Condition.

Abstract

This study was carried out to assess the effect of altered atmospheric condition on the physicochemical parameters of rainwater samples from Trans-Amadi, Rumuolumeni and Diobu all in Rivers State of Niger Delta. Rainwater samples from the three different locations were harvested directly using pre-sterilized plastic bottles within the same period of time. Each sample collected was divided into three parts. The samples were analyzed by comparing them with WHO standards for drinking water. A part was analyzed within 6 hours of sample collection, the second part was kept in a darkroom for a period of 21 days while the third was exposed to sunlight for a period of 21 days and after which some physicochemical tests including conductivity, sulphate, calcium, chlorine, nitrite, nitrate, pH, alkalinity, temperature, salinity, total dissolved solids; were carried out on the samples. The physicochemical characteristics of the collected samples varied depending on the atmospheric condition under which they were stored. Nevertheless, when compared with the control, the rainwater samples had more sulfate, lead, nitrite and nitrate content. This could be related to the industrial activities going on in these areas. The samples exposed to sunlight had improved and desirable physicochemical characteristics compared with the pre-exposed samples and those kept in the darkroom. These results indicate that exposing rainwater to sunlight rather than storing them in a darkroom can help improve its physicochemical qualities, thereby making it more acceptable for drinking and for domestic purpose. The government and non-governmental organizations should help provide portable water for communities that lack such, so that they do not get exposed to water pollution outcome and its risk associated consequences.