Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has announced that the state is forecasted to have abnormal rainfall in 2024, with a total of 1936.2 mm of rainfall expected.
Wahab made this statement during a news conference about the 2024 Seasonal Climate Predictions (SCP) and the socio-economic implications for Lagos State on Tuesday.
He reported that the average annual rainfall projected for 2024 would be 1936.2 mm, which was higher than the long-term average of 1721.48 mm, with the onset date predicted to be in the first week of April and ending in the first week of December.
According to his statement, Ikeja is set to have an onset date of April 4 and a cessation date of December 4, with a high annual amount of 1900 mm rainfall.
He said that Badagry would experience a rainfall onset date of April 1 and cessation date of December 5, leading to an annual amount of 1978 mm, and Ikorodu was anticipated to have a rainfall onset date of April 4 and cessation date of December 4, totaling an annual amount of 1903 mm.
Lagos Island is expected to have a rainfall onset date of April 3, a cessation date of December 4, and an annual amount of 1936 mm.
Epe is projected to have a rainfall onset date of April 2, a cessation date of December 5, and an annual amount of 1952 mm.
In his opinion, below normal rainfall is predicted for the first half of the rainy season, while normal to above normal rainfall is expected in the second half of the rainy season.
He highlighted the importance of the Ministry's partnership with NiMet on Seasonal Climate Prediction as a crucial weather and early warning tool for farmers, decision makers, sector operators, and businesses that could be impacted by the annual rainfall.
Government plans were discussed to downscale the Seasonal Climate Prediction to stakeholders and emergency workers in the state.
In preparation for potential floods, the state has implemented weather and river monitoring systems. Collaboration with the Ogun-Oshun River Basin Authority involves controlling dam releases to prevent flooding.
Proactive measures consist of strengthening flood warning systems and monitoring vulnerable areas and to ensure proper drainage, residents are advised to keep drains clear and report any blockages.
