In the bustling peri-urban landscape of Dakar, Senegal, a silent adversary is wreaking havoc on residential buildings, and it’s not what you might expect. It’s not the scorching sun or the sweltering heat, but rather the humble raindrop that’s causing significant damage, according to a recent study published in the *Tropical Geography and Environment Review* (Revue de Géographie Tropicale et d’Environnement). The research, led by Sidy SY, sheds light on the often-overlooked impact of precipitation on humidity-related phenomena in the Keur Massar neighborhood, a hotspot for flooding in Dakar.
The study focuses on the Parcelles Assainies de Keur Massar, a site developed by the Société Nationale des Habitations à Loyer Modéré (SN-HLM) without adequate drainage systems. Residents, who are largely self-building their homes, often overlook or are unaware of proper humidity-resistant construction techniques. This oversight has led to widespread issues such as rising damp and rainwater infiltration, causing significant structural damage.
“Many of the builders here are either chief masons or day laborers,” explains SY. “They often lack the knowledge or resources to implement effective humidity control measures. This is a problem that’s only exacerbated by the increasing frequency of extreme rainfall events we’ve been seeing since the late 1990s.”
The study employed both qualitative and quantitative methods, including surveys of residents, interviews with construction professionals, and analysis of local rainfall data. The findings underscore the profound influence of precipitation on humidity-related damage, a factor that’s often overlooked in residential construction.
For the energy sector, the implications are significant. Humidity-related damage can lead to increased energy consumption as residents rely more heavily on artificial heating and cooling systems to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. Moreover, the structural damage caused by humidity can compromise the energy efficiency of buildings, leading to higher energy costs and a larger carbon footprint.
“This research highlights the need for a paradigm shift in the way we approach residential construction, particularly in regions prone to heavy rainfall,” says SY. “By incorporating humidity-resistant design and construction techniques, we can not only improve the durability of our buildings but also enhance their energy efficiency.”
The study’s findings could shape future developments in the field, prompting a greater emphasis on humidity-resistant construction techniques and better drainage systems. It also underscores the need for education and training for construction professionals, ensuring they are equipped to tackle the challenges posed by our changing climate.
As our planet continues to warm, and rainfall patterns shift, the lessons learned from Keur Massar could prove invaluable, not just for Dakar, but for cities around the world grappling with similar challenges. The humble raindrop, it seems, is a force to be reckoned with.