Lagos State Issues Alert on Anticipated Heavy Rainfall and Urges Residents to Relocate from Flood-Prone Areas
Written by Deborah Oyinloye on March 27, 2024
The Lagos State Government has issued a warning to residents living in flood-prone areas near major rivers and drainage channels, urging them to prepare for relocation to higher grounds ahead of anticipated heavy rainfall this year. The State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, announced during a press conference in Ikeja, highlighting the Seasonal Climate Predictions (SCP) and the socio-economic implications of the predicted rainfall patterns.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) has forecasted an unprecedented 1936.2mm of rainfall for Lagos State during the 2024 rainy season. This amount is significantly higher than the long-term average of 1721.48mm. The rainy season is expected to commence in the first week of April and end in the first week of December.
Areas identified as flood plains include Owode, Iwaya, Makoko, Badia, Ijora, Isaalu, Pota, and Shibiri, among others. Low-lying areas such as Agiliti, Agboyi, Itowolo, and Ajegunle are also being closely monitored due to the potential risk of river flooding.
The Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA) is on high alert to ensure compliance with safety regulations for billboards and telecommunication masts to prevent collapses caused by high wind speeds during the rainy season. Emergency response and traffic management organizations are also on standby to mitigate the effects of thunderstorms and associated rains.
The Commissioner highlighted several factors contributing to flooding, including flash floods, high tidal movements causing backflows, and a rise in Lagoon levels. The government has strengthened the Flood Early Warning Systems (FEWS) to provide timely and effective flood information.
The government appeals to residents to refrain from dumping refuse in unauthorized places, clogging drains, and erecting illegal structures along drainage alignments. Residents are encouraged to report drainage blockages and waste dumping to relevant authorities.
The government plans to intensify awareness campaigns to educate communities in coastal and low-lying wetland areas about the need for relocation to higher grounds to prevent loss of lives and property. They will monitor rainfall patterns from neighbouring states and monitor dam releases and river water levels to prepare for potential flash flooding. The Commissioner appealed to residents to support government efforts by clearing drains in their frontages and refraining from dumping refuse into drainage channels.
In conclusion, the Lagos State Government emphasizes the importance of preparedness and community cooperation in mitigating the risks associated with heavy rainfall and potential flooding. Residents are urged to heed the warnings and take proactive measures to safeguard lives and property during the rainy season.
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Author: Deborah Oyinloye
With an interest in media, Deborah aims to impart the lives of people positively.
