As severe rainstorms continue to batter areas of the state, the Lagos State Government has issued a call for calm and warned that further downpours are likely in the days ahead.
Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, confirmed in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday that the state had seen heavy rainfall over the last 12 hours. He also mentioned that a new advisory from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency had forecast thunderstorms and rain over the next three days.
According to NiMET’s most recent alert, Lagos has seen heavy rainfall over the last 12 hours, with more to come in the days to come.
Wahab said, “I ask all residents to maintain their composure.”
Lagos had “resilient systems in place to manage flash floods,” he noted, but the drainage infrastructure might be momentarily overwhelmed by the amount of rain.
Being a coastal city, Lagos is prone to tidal lock-up, which occurs when the lagoon’s rising water levels reduce runoff’s ability to flow.
“Climate change makes this even worse,” he stated.
Wahab went on to say that the government was keeping a careful eye on places adjacent to rivers and lagoons since they were more likely to experience flash floods due to strong currents.
Additionally, he released a public safety advisory, specifically targeting parents, drivers, and pedestrians.
“During this holiday season, parents and guardians, please keep your kids inside.
It is very risky to play or swim in floodwater.
Additionally, I urge drivers and pedestrians to stay off of flooded roads.
He cautioned, “Lives can be lost and vehicles can be submerged.”
Wahab emphasized the significance of appropriate trash disposal in relation to drain blockage and declared ongoing enforcement against violators.
I must emphasize once more: avoid pouring trash down drains when it’s raining.
It makes flooding worse and clogs our drainage systems. Such behavior has repercussions, and enforcement will not stop,” he declared.
In order to better manage runoff, the commissioner pointed out that concrete-lined canals were being built across the city and that state drainage crews were working around the clock.
However, each resident must do their share during periods of exceptionally high rainfall like this one.
“We will work together to keep Lagos safe,” Wahab continued.
