Lagos Warns Residents Living in Flood Planes to Relocate over Flood Alerts
The Lagos State Government has issued a fresh alert to residents, particularly those living in low-lying and flood-prone areas, to remain on high alert as heavy rainfall continues to batter the state.
The warning comes as weather forecasts predict severe thunderstorms and widespread convective rainfall in the days ahead, increasing the likelihood of flash floods across various communities.
According to the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, geostationary satellite imagery and weather models indicate that a significant number of areas in Lagos are expected to witness intense downpours capable of triggering flash floods.
Neighbourhoods situated close to rivers, canals, and the Lagos lagoon are particularly at risk.
Wahab explained that the current atmospheric conditions are consistent with earlier warnings issued by the state government at the beginning of the rainy season.
He stressed that as a coastal state, Lagos often struggles with tidal lock phenomena during intense rainfall, leading to rapid surface flooding in affected areas.
Residents are advised to take necessary precautions and avoid unnecessary movement during periods of heavy rainfall.
The commissioner urged Lagosians to assess weather conditions before leaving their homes and to prioritize safety, especially when navigating areas known for poor drainage or a history of flooding.
Parents and guardians are also warned to keep a close watch on their children, particularly during the ongoing mid-term school break, as playing in the rain or attempting to swim in floodwaters can lead to tragic consequences.
Additionally, residents are cautioned against attempting to drive through or wade across flooded roads and streets, as such actions can result in vehicles being swept away or individuals drowning in swift-moving floodwaters.
The commissioner also highlighted the negative role of human activities in exacerbating flooding, particularly the indiscriminate dumping of refuse into drainage channels during rainfall.
Clogged gutters and blocked water pathways can significantly worsen the situation, leading to prolonged flooding and severe environmental damage in some areas.
While assuring residents that the state government has continued its all-year-round maintenance and clearing of major drainage channels, Wahab admitted that such efforts require additional intensity during periods of heavy rain.
The Lagos State Emergency Flood Abatement Gang has been deployed to various parts of the state to respond promptly to flooding emergencies and remove debris from critical drainage systems.
The state government has reiterated its commitment to mitigating the impact of climate change-induced flooding, but emphasized that residents must play their part by adhering to safety advisories, avoiding actions that obstruct drainage systems, and reporting blocked drains and waterways to relevant authorities.
The latest alert comes as Lagos, like many parts of Nigeria, faces increasingly erratic and intense rainfall patterns attributed to changing global weather systems, raising concerns over urban flood preparedness and the protection of vulnerable communities.
