The Lagos State government is calling on residents in low-lying areas to relocate to higher grounds following hours of heavy rainfall that has left parts of the metropolis submerged.
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Environment, Tokunbo Wahab, it was explained that Lagos has experienced approximately nine hours of rainfall since the early hours of Wednesday.
The torrential downpour has caused significant flash floods in areas such as Iyana Oworo, which links to the Third Mainland Bridge, among other regions.
Commissioner Wahab assured residents that the flash floods would recede once the rains subside and the lagoon’s water level decreases.
He also noted that the state has deployed the Emergency Flood Abatement Gang to major black spots, including Iyana Oworo, which has been cleared of blockages.
The Commissioner emphasized the dangers of driving through flooded areas, stating that “it takes only a foot of flowing water with a high tide to sweep away a vehicle, regardless of the number of occupants.”
He urged residents to avoid wading through floods with their vehicles.
Additionally, Wahab encouraged residents to regularly clean and maintain the drains in front of their properties and refrain from dumping refuse in the drains to prevent blockages, contributing to the collective good of the community.
The state government’s appeal comes as part of efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents during this period of heavy rainfall.