The Lagos State Government has warned residents about potential flash flooding due to the heavy rainfall recorded on Thursday, which was described as the most intense in several months.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, highlighted that the release of water from the Oyan Dam has further complicated the situation, as drainage channels are struggling to discharge water into the rivers.
Wahab explained that the rainfalls between Wednesday and Thursday caused a rise in major river levels, delaying the drainage of floodwaters, which is only receding gradually.
“The flash flood advisory is necessary,” the Commissioner said, “because data from weather monitoring stations show that Thursday’s rainfall produced the highest average and maximum values recorded so far this year.”
He added, “Over the past few weeks, water levels have increased drastically at the state’s four gauge stations. The Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority (OORBDA) has also confirmed water releases from two gates of the Oyan Dam, further elevating the flood risk.”
According to Wahab, the water level at Kara recently reached 2.2 metres, nearing the flood threshold. In Isheri-North GRA, the water level was recorded at 20.015 metres, surpassing the flood threshold, indicating that river flooding is already affecting these areas.
“At Majidun, the highest water level this year was 1.466 metres on October 14, while the lowest was 0.538 metres. At Falomo, due to continuous rainfall and the dam releases, both upstream and downstream areas of Lagos State are experiencing flooding along their corridors,” he added.
Wahab urged residents in low-lying areas, particularly along the Ogun River banks, to prioritise their safety by moving to higher ground to avoid unnecessary loss of lives and property. He also warned that more rainfall is expected in the coming weeks.
