Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources in Lagos State has issued a cautionary statement indicating that the state is poised to encounter abnormal rainfall patterns throughout 2024, with a forecasted total of 1936.2 mm of precipitation.
Wahab conveyed this information during a news conference focused on the 2024 Seasonal Climate Predictions (SCP) and their socio-economic implications for Lagos State, held on Tuesday.
According to Wahab, the anticipated average annual rainfall for 2024 exceeds the long-term average, standing at 1936.2 mm compared to the historical average of 1721.48 mm. The onset of the rainy season is projected to commence in the first week of April, persisting until the first week of December.
In his briefing, Wahab outlined specific details for Ikeja, pinpointing an onset date of April 4 and an anticipated cessation date of December 4, with an expected high annual precipitation of 1900 mm.
He further delineated the forecast, indicating below-normal rainfall in the initial phase of the rainy season, transitioning to normal to above-normal rainfall in the latter part.
To effectively address potential flooding challenges, Wahab emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining collaborative efforts with the Ogun-Oshun River Basin Authority (OORBDA). Additionally, he underscored the significance of monitoring rainfall from neighbouring states such as Ogun, Oyo, and Osun, as well as the release of water from dams and river water levels into Lagos State.
