When the monsoon rains come with their refreshing showers and lowered temperatures, the landscape is reborn—trees are greener, the air is fresher, and dry land receives a second wind. And yet for all the welcome relief the rainy season brings, it is accompanied by a special set of health hazards, safety issues, and everyday annoyances. From water-borne illnesses to traffic congestion, electrical outages to skin infections, the monsoon is responsible for an assortment of afflictions that need to be confronted actively and in good time. At St. Wilfred’s School Panvel, recognized as the best school in Panvel, students are encouraged to not only enjoy the season but also stay informed and prepared through health awareness sessions and seasonal safety initiatives.
This post talks about 9 common problems that occur in the rainy season and offers easy safety precautions for each of them. You are a student, working parent, commuter, or homemaker, but being informed about these problems can allow you to have fun in the rain and be safe and prepared.
1) Waterborne Diseases
Problem:
The most prevalent health risks that are prevalent during the rainy season include the outbreak of waterborne diseases such as typhoid, cholera, dysentery, hepatitis A, and diarrhea. These diseases are usually prevalent through the intake of contaminated drinking water and contact with unhygienic environments.
In the case of heavy rain, drainage outlets are blocked, and contaminated water can become mixed up with potable water sources. Children, the elderly, and low-immunity people are the most vulnerable.
Precaution:
- Drink boiled water or an RO filtered water.
- Do not consume tap water and ice from untrusted sources.
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
- Keep food covered and refrigerated.
- Practice strict personal hygiene, especially before meals.
2) Mosquito-Borne Diseases
Problem:
The rainy season offers ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes, and malaria, dengue fever, chikungunya, and Zika virus cases skyrocket. Standing water in flowerpots, open drains, and roadside puddles serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Precaution:
- Use mosquito repellents, nets, and coils, preferably in the evening.
- Dress in full-sleeved attire outdoors.
- Don’t keep water in open containers.
- Clean coolers and water tanks regularly.
- Fill kerosene or disinfectants into stagnant water to prevent breeding.
3) Slippery Roadways and Road Traffic Accidents
Problem:
The pavements and roads are slippery during rains, and this increases the chances of slipping, falling, and skidding of the vehicles. Potholes and diminished visibility are additional factors worsening the situation, especially for two-wheeler riders and pedestrians.
Precaution:
- Slow down and drive slowly; maintain a safe gap.
- Make sure your brakes, wipers, and headlights are in good working condition.
- Use anti-slip boots when venturing outdoors.
- Avoid walking in flooded streets in a bid to minimize the chances of slipping or stepping on sharp objects.
- Use pedestrian routes and crossings to stay safe.
4) Waterlogging and Flooding
Problem:
Urban flooding is a major problem in cities during the monsoon season. Clogged drains, poor infrastructure, and heavy rains can cause heavy waterlogging, resulting in traffic congestion and damage to houses and business establishments.
This can also lead to:
- Electrocution from submerged wires.
- Vehicle breakdowns.
- Food and water supply contamination.
Precaution:
- Avoid entering floodwaters where you may not see open manholes or electrical wires.
- Keep valuables and electronics in water-proof bags.
- Raise significant items in the home.
- Follow traffic reports and take alternate routes.
- Keep emergency contact numbers handy.
5) Fungal growth and skin infections
Problem:
Low temperatures and prolonged exposure to wet clothing make skin susceptible to fungal infections, rashes, itching, and athlete’s foot. Bacteria in dirty rainwater also cause skin ailments.
Precaution:
- Shower after arriving home from the rain.
- Apply antifungal creams or powders in sweaty regions such as underarms and feet.
- Wear dry, cotton-based, and breathable clothes.
- Change into dry shoes and socks at once.
- Dry towels, clothes, and shoes in sunlight whenever possible.
6) Electrical Hazards
Problem:
Monsoon increases the risk of electric shock, short circuit, and fire due to exposed wires, poor insulation, and water seepage. Wet floors and wet hands near appliances can prove fatal if safety precautions are not observed.
Precaution:
- Do not touch electrical appliances and switches using damp hands.
- Avoid placing wires and cords near water.
- Get your house wiring and grounding checked before the monsoon.
- Turn off unused appliances during thunderstorms.
- Inform authorities about exposed wires and fallen poles.
7) Mould, Dampness, and Indoor Air Quality Issues
Problem:
Closed windows, moisture, and water seepage form mold and soggy walls, especially in offices and homes. Mold spores lead to asthma, allergies, and respiratory problems.
Precaution:
- Air rooms daily—open windows for a few hours.
- Use dehumidifiers, camphor, or charcoal packets in closets.
- Repair wall or ceiling cracks and leaks.
- Clean wet surfaces using disinfectants.
- Regularly sun-dry mattresses, rugs, and carpets.
8) Transportation and Daily Routine Disruption
Problem:
Heavy rainfall is most likely to cause delays in trains, traffic jams, and flight cancellations in major cities like Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata. School hours, office hours, and supply chains are impacted.
Precaution:
- Keep abreast of news alerts and weather apps.
- Keep essential items at home like food, medicine, and cash.
- Make working remotely or school attendance when feasible.
- Leave early and organize your journey to prevent delays.
- Carry an umbrella, raincoat, and rain boots wherever you go.
9) Seasonal Cold, Flu, and Low Immunity
Problem:
Recurrent fluctuations in temperature, rain exposure, and viral infections cause an increase in cold, flu, throat infection, and low immunity during rainy seasons.
These illnesses are extremely contagious by contact or air droplets, especially in schools, the workplace, or on public transport.
Precaution:
- Boost immunity with homemade medicines like tulsi, turmeric milk, and herbal teas.
- Consume hot-cooked and fresh fruits instead of cold foods or raw foods.
- Drink at least 8-10 glasses of pure water every day.
- Refrain from sharing towels, cutlery, or food at this point.
- Warm and dry; have a spare set of clothes if needed.
Special Precautions for Elderly and Children
For Kids:
- Make sure they carry a raincoat and waterproof school bag.
- Warn them not to jump over puddles or flooded ground.
- Carry healthy tiffin food and boiled water.
- Teach basic hygiene like washing hands and using tissues.
For Older Adults:
- Make sure their environment is mold-free and dry.
- Track chronic conditions and joint aches, which are worsened by wet conditions.
- Supply warm clothing and over-the-counter medication for uncomplicated colds.
- Keep them from walking alone on rainy sidewalks.
Put together a Rainy Season Safety Kit
A home or travel rainy season emergency kit must have:
- Flashlight and batteries
- Touque and raincoat
- Disinfectant wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Waterproof electronics bag
- Extra towels and clothing
- Minimum first-aid kit and basic drugs
- Important phone numbers (doctor, electrician, city)
Conclusion
The Indian monsoons are a time of beauty and romantic nostalgia. They are a time of cool winds, blooming greenery, and respite from the sweltering summer. But as romantic as monsoons are, they pose real and tangible health, hygiene, infrastructure, and day-to-day life risks as well. From water-borne and mosquito-borne diseases to slippery roads, electrical accidents, and transport breakdown, the monsoon dangers are many and varied.
At St. Wilfred’s School Panvel, one of the best CBSE schools in Panvel, students are educated about seasonal safety through awareness programs and interactive sessions, ensuring they enjoy the rains responsibly and mindfully.
What ensures that the rainy season is safe and fun is preparedness and knowledge. The majority of the problems we are subjected to during this season can be minimized or rectified just by being proactive—boiling water, emptying stagnant pools, repairing household leaks, proper foot gear, and using protective gear like umbrellas, raincoats, or face masks.