The Lagos State Government has appealed to residents to remain calm as the state endures more than 12 hours of continuous heavy rainfall, which has raised concerns over flash flooding in several parts of the metropolis.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, the government acknowledged the impact of the downpour and assured residents that infrastructure is in place to mitigate the effects of flash floods.
Wahab cited a fresh weather advisory from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which forecasts further heavy rainfall and thunderstorms over the next three days. He noted that while the state has invested in flood management infrastructure, some areas could still experience flash flooding due to the volume of water overwhelming drainage collectors.
He emphasized Lagos’ geographical vulnerability as a coastal city, pointing out that climate change has further complicated flood control efforts. “With the heavy rainfalls, the water level in the lagoon is bound to rise, which may result in a tidal lock. This condition prevents the free discharge of water from the drainage channels,” Wahab explained.
The Commissioner urged residents living in low-lying and riverine areas to remain alert, warning that flash floods in these areas could occur with high currents. He also advised parents and guardians to keep an eye on children during the holiday period to prevent them from playing in floodwaters or attempting to swim during downpours.
Reiterating safety measures, Wahab warned both motorists and pedestrians to avoid wading through floodwaters, as vehicles could be submerged and individuals swept away in extreme cases.
He also condemned the practice of dumping refuse into drains during rainfalls, stressing that such actions obstruct water flow and worsen flooding. “There are consequences for disposing of refuse into drains. Residents must desist from this habit,” he cautioned.
Wahab concluded by stating that the government has intensified the year-round clearing and maintenance of drainage channels and is awarding contracts for the concrete lining of new channels to improve runoff management.
Despite the challenges posed by the unusually intense rainfall, he assured that the state government is committed to managing its impact and protecting residents across Lagos.