State urges preparedness as NiMet forecasts early onset and longer rainy season
Babajide Fadoju
The Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources has warned residents to prepare for possible flooding, strong winds, and above-normal rainfall as the 2026 rainy season begins.
Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources Tokunbo Wahab gave the advisory during a press briefing with journalists in Lagos, where he outlined the seasonal climate outlook and its possible impact on the state.
The forecast is based on predictions released on February 10 by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which analysed expected rainfall patterns, temperature changes, and other weather indicators across the country.
Wahab said the ministry conducts the annual briefing to prepare residents and government agencies for the environmental and socio-economic effects of the rainy season.
Early Onset, Longer Rainy Season Expected
According to the commissioner, the 2026 climate outlook indicates that Lagos may experience an early onset and a longer duration of rainfall.
The forecast is linked to a projected weak La Niña and a neutral phase of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), which can influence rainfall patterns and temperature levels.
He said the rainy season is expected to start around the last week of March and end in early December.
NiMet projections show that the season could begin around:
● March 31 in Ikeja with about 1,932 mm of rainfall
● March 28 in Badagry with about 2,010 mm
● March 31 in Ikorodu with about 1,935 mm
● March 30 on Lagos Island with about 1,968 mm
● March 29 in Epe with about 1,984 mm
The average annual rainfall expected across the state’s 20 local government areas is estimated at about 1,965 mm.
Wahab warned that intense rainfall could trigger flooding in vulnerable parts of the state, while strong winds at the beginning and end of the rainy season may damage property and pose risks to residents.
He added that thunderstorms and heavy rains could also disrupt commercial activities and lead to flight delays.
The commissioner said the state has strengthened monitoring systems through weather and river gauge stations to improve preparedness for flood and weather-related incidents.
He noted that the ministry is working closely with NiMet to provide early warning information to farmers, businesses, and urban planners.
Flood control measures, including year-round clearing and dredging of drainage systems and improved waste management, have also been intensified.
The state is also collaborating with the Ogun-Oshun River Basin Development Authority to regulate water releases from the Oyan Dam in order to reduce the risk of flooding along the Ogun River.
Communities such as Agiliti, Agboyi, Itowolo, and Ajegunle are under close monitoring due to their vulnerability to river flooding.
Wahab urged residents to avoid dumping refuse in drainage channels and warned against constructing buildings on flood plains.
He also advised residents living in flood-prone areas including Owode, Iwaya, Makoko, Badia, Ijora, Isaalu, Pota, and Shibiri to remain alert and be ready to relocate to safer areas if necessary.
Motorists were also advised to observe speed limits during heavy rains, while households were encouraged to regularly clear drains around their homes to allow the free flow of stormwater.
