The Lagos State Government has appealed to residents to remain calm following over 12 hours of continuous heavy rainfall, warning of possible flash floods in the coming days.
The state’s Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, made the appeal on Monday in a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Kunle Adeshina.
Wahab reassured the public that resilient infrastructure was in place to mitigate flooding risks but acknowledged that the intensity of recent rains could overwhelm drainage systems. He cited a fresh weather advisory from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) issued on August 4, which forecasted continued heavy rainfall and thunderstorms over the next three days.
“Given the intensity of the rain, flash flooding is likely in some areas due to the limitations of our major collectors in handling excessive runoff,” Wahab said.
He urged Lagosians not to panic, noting that Lagos, as a coastal state, is naturally prone to water-related challenges, especially with the impact of climate change.
Wahab explained that the rising water level in the lagoon during intense rain leads to tidal lock, which restricts the outflow of rainwater from drainage channels. “This results in flooding, particularly in low-lying and riverine areas,” he added.
He advised residents in flood-prone zones to remain vigilant and avoid dangerous activities during the downpour, such as allowing children to play in or around flooded areas.
“Motorists and pedestrians should avoid attempting to wade through flooded roads. Vehicles may become submerged, and people could be swept away by high water currents,” he warned.
Wahab also called on residents to desist from dumping refuse into drains, emphasizing that such acts clog drainage systems and contribute to urban flooding.
According to the commissioner, the government is continuing its year-round maintenance of drainage systems and expanding concrete-lined channels to improve water flow during heavy rains. However, he cautioned that extreme weather events demand collective vigilance and cooperation from residents.
