The Lagos State Government has announced that the state will experience above-normal rainfall amounts in the first peak of the 2025 rainy season, while normal rainfall is expected in the second peak.
Speaking at the Seasonal Climate Predictions (SCP) press briefing held at Alausa on Wednesday, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, emphasized the need for residents to prepare for the expected weather patterns and their socio-economic implications.
> “The rainy season is expected to start as early as the last week of March, with the end of the season projected for the first week of December. The average annual rainfall is predicted to be 1,936mm, which is higher than the long-term average from 1991 to 2020,” Wahab stated.
He attributed the forecast to the neutral phase of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), which is expected to persist for the first six to eight months of the year. This phenomenon will likely result in an early onset, a longer rainy season, and a delayed cessation of rainfall in Lagos.
Rainfall Projections Across Lagos State
According to the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), the following rainfall patterns are expected in key areas of the state:
Ikeja: Onset – April 2, Cessation – December 2, Annual Rainfall – 1,900mm
Badagry: Onset – March 30, Cessation – December 4, Annual Rainfall – 1,978mm
Ikorodu: Onset – April 2, Cessation – December 3, Annual Rainfall – 1,903mm
Lagos Island: Onset – April 1, Cessation – December 3, Annual Rainfall – 1,936mm
Epe: Onset – March 31, Cessation – December 4, Annual Rainfall – 1,952mm
Wahab also noted that Ogun State is expected to experience similar above-normal rainfall patterns.
Potential Risks and Government Measures
The Commissioner cautioned that the high volume of rainfall could lead to flash floods in some areas. He also warned of strong winds during the onset and cessation of the rainy season, which could pose risks to lives, properties, commercial activities, and air travel.
To mitigate the impacts, Wahab assured residents that the state government is intensifying flood control measures and strengthening its collaboration with NiMet to ensure early warnings and preparedness.
“Lagos will continue to benefit from proactive planning, and all necessary steps are being taken to minimize the impact of flooding,” he said.
Residents are advised to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and cooperate with government agencies to manage the challenges posed by the rainy season.
