The Lagos State Government has issued a flash flood alert following more than 12 hours of relentless rainfall across the state.
In a statement released on Monday, Mr. Kunle Adeshina, Director of Public Affairs, quoted the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, urging residents to remain calm but extremely vigilant as the downpour is expected to continue.
Citing a fresh advisory from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) on August 4, Wahab warned that heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast to persist over the next three days.
Flood-Prone Areas on High Alert
Wahab explained that the intensity and duration of the rainfall have overwhelmed some major drainage collectors, leading to localized flash floods in several parts of the state. The commissioner reminded residents that Lagos, being a coastal city, is naturally vulnerable to flooding—especially under the current strain of climate change.
He noted that the rise in water levels in the lagoon has resulted in a tidal lock, which hinders the proper discharge of rainwater through existing channels.
“All areas abutting rivers and lagoons in Lagos are particularly at risk,” Wahab said. “Those living in low-lying communities should stay alert as flash floods may come with dangerous currents.”
Public Safety and Environmental Responsibility
He cautioned parents to prevent children from playing in the rain or attempting to swim in floodwaters, stressing the real risk of drowning or being swept away. Pedestrians and motorists were similarly advised to avoid wading through waterlogged roads.
Wahab also addressed the issue of improper waste disposal, describing it as a major contributor to blocked drains and intensified flooding. He warned that throwing refuse into gutters is punishable by law and puts entire communities at risk.
“The government is intensifying the year-round cleaning and maintenance of all drainage channels,” he said, “and new contracts have been awarded for concrete lining of additional channels to cope with the runoff.”
Despite the state’s ongoing infrastructure upgrades, Wahab acknowledged that extreme rain events—such as the one experienced in the past 12 hours—require joint efforts from both the government and residents to mitigate damage.
He assured Lagosians that systems are in place to manage the situation, but vigilance, cooperation, and environmental discipline are essential in preventing avoidable disasters.
