Lagos warns residents of above-normal rainfall, possible flooding in 2026

The Lagos State Government has warned residents to prepare for heavier-than-usual rainfall and possible flash flooding during the 2026 rainy season.

The warning was issued on Friday by Tokunbo Wahab while briefing journalists on the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction released by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency.

According to Wahab, the rainy season in Lagos State is expected to begin in the last week of March and end in the first week of December. The state is projected to receive between 3,030 millimetres and 4,650 millimetres of rainfall during the period.

Rainfall projections across Lagos

The commissioner said different parts of the state would experience slightly varying rainfall patterns throughout the season.

In Ikeja, rainfall is expected to start on March 31 and end on December 2, with an estimated annual rainfall of about 1,932 millimetres.

Badagry is projected to experience rainfall from March 28 to December 3, with about 2,010 millimetres expected during the year.

In Ikorodu, the rainy season is forecast to begin on March 31 and end on December 2, with about 1,935 millimetres of rainfall.

Rainfall in Lagos Island is expected to start on March 30 and end on December 2, with approximately 1,968 millimetres of rainfall, while Epe could experience rainfall between March 29 and December 3 with about 1,984 millimetres.

Across the state’s 20 local government areas and 37 local council development areas, the average total rainfall is projected at about 1,965 millimetres.

Flood risk and preparedness measures

Wahab said Lagos and neighbouring states are expected to experience above-normal rainfall this year, warning that heavy downpours could trigger flash floods in some parts of the state.

He explained that flooding is more likely at the beginning and end of the rainy season when strong winds often accompany heavy rainfall.

According to the commissioner, such conditions could threaten lives and property, disrupt commercial activities and even cause delays in flight operations.

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To strengthen preparedness, the state government has installed a network of weather stations across Lagos to monitor rainfall patterns, weather conditions and water levels.

Flooding has been a recurring challenge in Lagos, a coastal state that has frequently experienced property damage and displacement caused by heavy rains.

Authorities say the monitoring system and early warnings are part of efforts to improve disaster preparedness and reduce the impact of flooding during the 2026 rainy season.