The Lagos State Government announced yesterday that it has implemented measures to address the significant volume of stormwater caused by heavy rainfall throughout the state.

During a 'Downscaling Workshop on the Seasonal Climate Predictions and Socio-Economic Implications for the State' held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industries in Alausa, Ikeja, Mr. Olalekan Shodeinde, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Office of Drainage Services, highlighted the measures taken by the Lagos State Government. Mr. Shodeinde's statement was conveyed by Mr. Mahmood Adegbite, the Director of Drainage Enforcement and Compliance, who emphasized that the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Ministry had earlier released the annual Seasonal Climate Predictions (SCP) to raise awareness among the public regarding the socio-economic impact of the rainy season.

He assured, "We want to emphasize that our state will continue to experience the advantages of thorough and meticulous planning, as we intensify our efforts in flood control to effectively manage any upcoming rainfall."

The Permanent Secretary urged residents to consistently support the government's initiatives by regularly clearing drains in front of their properties to ensure unobstructed flow of stormwater. Additionally, he emphasized the need to refrain from dumping refuse into drainage channels.

During his presentation, Mr. Oyegade Adeleke, the Director General of NIMET, highlighted that there is a forecast of high-intensity rainfall expected from May to June. There is an 80% probability of experiencing rainfall exceeding 50mm in a single day in Badagry, Lagos Island, Lagos Mainland, Epe, Eti-Osa, Ibeju/Lekki, and Ikeja.