Abstract

Physicochemical characteristics in rainwater samples collected at the peak of rainy seasons of August 2008 and 2009 from fifteen locations of Warri axis of Delta area in Western part of Niger Delta region of Nigeria were investigated for two consecutive years. The temperature ranged from 28.21- 29.38°C with mean value of 28.79 ± 0.27°C - 29.68°C with mean value of 29.20 ± 0.22°C for year one and two respectively. The pH of the rainwater was slightly acidic with pH values that ranged from 6.42 - 6.81 while the total suspended solid value was higher than World Health Organization (WHO) for the two years studied. In general, the data revealed that maxima and minima concentrations of the priority physicochemical rainwater quality parameters examined were within the recommended international standard of WHO 1996 except for pH and total suspended solid. However, the rainwater may still be suitable for domestic, recreational and industrial uses. Hence, similar findings like this would continue to guide us in protecting the quality of our water systems including rainwater. By and large, the results of this study would be useful for every interested group in need.

Key words: Rainwater, Niger Delta, WHO, mean value, physicochemical, maxima and minima.