Direct rainwater samples were analysed for total metal concentration at four different sites in Calabar Metropolis in Cross River State, S. E. Nigeria. The study was carried out during the rainy season from May to August, 2007. The concentration of Cd, Pb, Zn, Cu, Fe, and Co were analysed using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Results obtained showed the mean levels of the metals in mg/L as: 0.085 – 0.932(Cu), 0.008 – 0.24(Pb), 0.037 – 0.081(Fe), 0.040 – 0.049Zn), 0.057 – 0.185(Co), 0.017 – 0.067(Ni) and 0.009 – 0.016(Cd). The mean Pb concentration was slightly above WHO's limits for good quality drinking water. The same was observed for Cd (WHO, 2006). It was also observed that the monthly results had raised level of metal concentration especially in the State Housing Estate. The high level of metal concentration is associated with anthropogenic activities, as Calabar metropolis has experienced some high degree of urban infrastructure, which has also led to high number of generating sets both in residential areas and for industrial activities.
Trace metals, Anthropogenic activities, Rainwater quality, Potable water
