Lagos rain flood disruption leaves commuters stranded as heavy rainfall causes flooding, traffic delays and sharp transport fare increases
LAGOS, Nigeria, July 13, 2026. Heavy rainfall across Lagos State on Monday disrupted daily activities, leaving commuters stranded, forcing residents to walk through floodwaters and causing transport operators to increase fares in several areas of the city.
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Residents who spoke about the downpour described it as one of the most severe in recent weeks, saying flooded roads, traffic congestion and difficult travel conditions affected businesses, work schedules and productivity.
For many commuters, the journey to work became a challenging experience as major routes were slowed by rising water levels and heavy traffic, while some passengers faced unexpected increases in transportation costs.
Mrs Odion Okiade, a resident of Alimosho, said rainy days often come with additional financial pressure because some transport operators raise fares during difficult weather conditions.
“My transport fare increases by at least N1,500 whenever it rains. Today’s rain was something else,” she said.
She said repeated fare increases have added to the difficulties faced by residents already dealing with rising living expenses.
Another commuter, Mrs Nkiru Ogbonna, said she had to walk through knee-deep floodwater while trying to reach her workplace from Costain.
“I had to wade through knee-deep water to get to my office this morning,” she said, describing the experience as a recurring challenge during periods of heavy rainfall.
Mrs Chineme Onuoha, who travelled from the Cele area, said flooding and congestion significantly extended her journey time.
“Something that would normally take three to five minutes to Costain took us about 25 minutes, and I got to work late,” she said.
Mrs Lilian, another commuter, explained that the combination of flooded roads and traffic congestion affected her productivity after her journey from Orile to Costain lasted about 45 minutes.
“It took me 45 minutes to get to Costain from Orile. The disruption will affect my productivity at work today,” she said.
The flood disruption also affected residents in communities vulnerable to recurring flooding, with some blaming poor drainage systems and improper waste disposal for worsening the situation.
Mrs Deborah, who lives in Ayobo near the river bordering Ogun State, said rainfall regularly creates movement challenges in her area.
“When it rains, the river rises, but I still have to get to work somehow,” she said, appealing for stronger measures to protect flood-prone communities.
Mrs Oluchi Uzoma, a resident of Fantasy Island near Sango and Agbado, said flooding has damaged roads and affected businesses in her community.
“The rain has cut us off. We can hardly go anywhere because our roads are no longer motorable,” she said.
Uzoma blamed blocked drainage channels caused by waste and sand accumulation, warning that flooded potholes have created risks for motorists and pedestrians.
“If you’re not careful, the next minute you’ll land in a pothole filled with water. It’s better to stay home until the rain subsides,” she added.
She urged residents to improve waste disposal practices, noting that blocked gutters prevent proper water flow and contribute to flooding.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has advised residents of Lagos and other parts of southern Nigeria to remain cautious as rainfall and thunderstorms are expected to continue.
The agency warned that strong winds may accompany thunderstorms and advised motorists to drive carefully due to slippery roads and reduced visibility.
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Residents were also advised to avoid flooded areas, drainage channels, trees and locations near power lines during storms.
