Heavy Rains and Flooding Disrupt Activities in Lagos State, Schools Closed in Affected Areas

Following heavy rains and flash flooding in Lagos state, the Lagos State Emergency Agency has issued a warning advising people to avoid non-essential travels during this period. The heavy rainfall, which began around early morning on Wednesday, has caused disruption across the state.

The head of the agency, Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, stated that emergency responders are on high alert to address any arising situations. As a result of the heavy rainfall, a two-story building collapsed in the Mushin area, leading to a response operation by the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (Lasema).

Lasema’s search and rescue team successfully rescued seven individuals from the collapsed building on Cameroon Street, Mushin. Three females and four males were taken to the hospital for treatment, with confirmation that no victims remained under the rubble.

Among the affected residents is Mary-Jane Ukeme, a 51-year-old widow whose house in Ipaja was inundated with floodwater. She recounted the damage caused to her property, including her car submerged in water due to the flooding.

Prior warnings from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) highlighted 13 states prone to heavy rainfall, flash floods, and subsequent road disruptions. States such as Niger, Plateau, Benue, Kaduna, Taraba, Delta, Imo, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Bayelsa, Ekiti, and Osun are particularly at risk.

White Sand Estate in Isheri-Osun, located in the Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos, has been severely affected by the heavy rains. Schools in the area have closed their doors, urging students to stay at home to ensure safety amidst hazardous road conditions and flash floods.

Residents in various parts of Lagos, including Iyana-Oworo, Oshodi, and Lagos Island, have faced significant disruptions and risks due to the flooding. Videos and images shared online depict the extent of the flooding, with PUNCH Online reporting the challenges faced by residents as streets become impassable.

The recurring flooding in White Sand Estate underscores the need for urgent intervention by the Lagos State Government to address drainage system deficiencies and infrastructure maintenance. Johnson Olabode, the Public Relations Officer of the area CDC, expressed frustration at the ongoing challenges faced by residents, including the closure of schools amidst severe flooding.