Lagos Braces for Above-Normal Rainfall in 2025, Government Warns
Lagos State is set to experience an unusually intense and prolonged rainy season in 2025, with authorities issuing early warnings about potential flooding and strong winds. The state government has urged residents to take necessary precautions as rainfall levels are expected to surpass historical averages.
At a press conference, Tokunbo Wahab, Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, announced that meteorological forecasts indicate a longer-than-usual rainy season, beginning in late March and extending into early December.
“The average annual rainfall amount predicted is 1,936 mm, exceeding the long-term 1991–2020 average,” Wahab stated. The forecast is based on 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.
Lagos State, along with neighbouring Ogun State, is set to witness above-normal precipitation levels, particularly in key regions such as Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island, and Epe.
Ikeja is expected to see its first rainfall on April 2, with a cessation date of December 2, accumulating approximately 1,900 mm of rainfall. Badagry will receive its first showers as early as March 30 and will continue until December 4, with a predicted total of 1,978 mm.
With the heavy rains comes an increased risk of flash floods in low-lying areas, as well as strong winds during the onset and end of the rainy season.
“We anticipate that high rainfall amounts may lead to flash flooding in some parts of the state,” Wahab cautioned. “Strong winds at the start and end of the season could disrupt commercial activities, cause flight delays, and lead to economic losses.”
To mitigate the impact of the anticipated weather conditions, the state government is ramping up flood control measures and working closely with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet). The collaboration aims to provide timely and accurate climate predictions to assist farmers, business owners, and city planners in making informed decisions.
“Our ministry continues to work with NiMet on the annual seasonal climate prediction, which has become a crucial tool for managing weather-related risks,” Wahab assured.
