Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources in Lagos State, disclosed during a news conference on the 2024 Seasonal Climate Predictions (SCP) that abnormal rainfall is expected in the state this year, with a predicted total of 1936.2 mm.

He stated that the average annual rainfall predicted for 2024 surpasses the long-term average, with the rainy season expected to commence in the first week of April and end in the first week of December. 

Specifically, he outlined onset and cessation dates for different areas in Lagos State, along with their corresponding annual rainfall predictions. 

Wahab emphasized the importance of collaboration with NiMet on Seasonal Climate Prediction to provide valuable weather and early warning information to various sectors and businesses likely to be affected by the rainfall.

The government plans to disseminate the Seasonal Climate Prediction to stakeholders and emergency workers and has deployed weather stations and river gauge stations to monitor weather and river levels for increased preparedness.

Efforts to contain flooding include an all-year-round drainage maintenance program and partnership with the Ogun-Oshun River Basin Authority. 

Wahab highlighted the importance of the Flood Early Warning Systems (FEWS) and monitoring of low-lying communities prone to flooding.

He warned residents about potential flooding due to high tidal movement and reiterated the government's readiness to respond to emergencies.

Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, Special Adviser on Environment, urged residents to support government efforts by cleaning drains, avoiding dumping of refuse into drainage channels, and reporting cases of drainage blockages or waste dumping.

He also advised motorists to observe speed limits during the rainy season to prevent accidents. Residents were encouraged to prioritize environmental maintenance and support.

Naijamatta is a social networking site,

download Naijamatta from Google play store or visit www.naijamatta.com to register. You can post, comment, do voice and video call, join and open group, go live etc. Join Naijamatta family, the Green app.