The Lagos State Government warns of potential flash flooding after the heaviest rainfall in months, urging residents to evacuate low-lying areas.
The Lagos State Government has issued a flash flood warning following the heaviest rainfall in several months, which occurred on Thursday.
The announcement, made by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, highlights the serious risk of flooding exacerbated by the release of water from Oyan Dam.
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In a statement released on Sunday, Wahab explained that the intense rainfall, particularly between Wednesday and Thursday, caused significant increases in the levels of major rivers, hindering the drainage channels’ ability to discharge water into them.
This led to concerns about rising water levels and potential flooding across the state.
Wahab stated, “The latest flash flood advisory became necessary because data gathered from weather monitoring stations showed that Thursday’s average and maximum values were the highest so far this year.”
He noted that conditions have drastically changed in recent weeks, with significant increases in water levels recorded at four gauge stations within the state.
The commissioner highlighted alarming water level readings, including 2.2 meters at Kara, which is approaching flood thresholds, and 20.015 meters at Isheri-North GRA, which exceeds flood limits.
These figures indicate that catchment areas along these routes are already experiencing river flooding. He also reported that Majidun recorded its peak water level for the year on October 14, at 1.466 meters.
Wahab warned that both upstream and downstream areas of Lagos State could experience flooding due to continuous rainfall and the ongoing water release from the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority (OORBDA).
He urged residents living in low-lying areas and along the banks of the Ogun River to prioritise their safety by moving upland to prevent loss of life and property.
The warning follows a severe rainfall event in July that disrupted business and commercial activities across Lagos and Ogun states.
The 10-hour downpour led to a two-storey building collapse in Mushin, obstructed vehicular movement, and left thousands of residents stranded, with students unable to attend school.
Wahab reiterated that the rainfall this month has been unusually high compared to previous months, stressing the need for vigilance as more rain is anticipated.
He concluded with a call for residents to remain alert and take necessary precautions to safeguard themselves and their properties.
