By Our Correspondent

National News – The Lagos State Government has alerted residents to prepare for heavy rainfall and possible flooding as the 2026 rainy season approaches.

Authorities say weather forecasts indicate an early start to the rains, higher-than-normal rainfall levels, and stronger winds that could affect lives, property, and business activities across the state.

The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed this during a press briefing on the Seasonal Climate Prediction and its socio-economic implications in Alausa.

He explained that the forecast was based on projections from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, which released the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction earlier in the year.

According to the commissioner, Lagos is expected to experience an early to normal onset of rainfall, with the season likely beginning in the last week of March and ending around the first week of December.

The forecast also suggests that rainfall levels may range between 1,650mm and 3,030mm across the state, with temperatures expected to remain above average between March and May.

Wahab explained that different divisions of the state would experience varying rainfall patterns.

Ikeja and Ikorodu divisions are expected to see rainfall begin around March 31 and end in early December, while Badagry may experience rainfall starting from March 28.

Lagos Island and Epe divisions are also expected to record significant rainfall during the same period.

He warned that above-normal rainfall could increase the likelihood of flash floods in some areas.

Low-lying communities such as Agiliti, Agboyi, Itowolo, and Ajegunle have been identified as locations that may experience flooding due to rising water levels along the Ogun River and nearby river basins.

The commissioner added that strong winds often associated with the beginning and end of the rainy season could damage billboards, telecommunication masts, and other structures.

He also noted that rising lagoon levels and tidal movements might temporarily prevent drainage channels from discharging stormwater, leading to short-term flooding in some areas.

To reduce potential risks, the state government said it has intensified its year-round drainage maintenance programme and strengthened waste management operations to prevent blocked drains.

Residents were also advised to avoid dumping refuse in drainage channels, clear gutters around their homes, and remain alert to flood warnings.

Motorists were urged to drive cautiously during heavy rainfall to prevent accidents.