Nigeria - Heavy rainfall causes flooding and disruptions in Lagos

Heavy rainfall and bad weather, typical of southern Nigeria's annual rainy season, has resulted in flooding, as well as disruptions to traffic and utility services in several major urban centres, including the port city of Lagos, since 30 June.

Flooding has been reported on several highways and roads across the city, including parts of the Ibadan Expressway. The worst-affected areas of the city include Ketu, Ebute Metta, the greater Lagos Mainland area, and Lagos Island, among others. Heavy rainfall and likely flooding are forecast to continue until at least 9 July; up to 6mm of rain is forecast to fall on 3 July in the cities of Ibadan, Port Harcourt, Benin City and Lagos.

Nigeria experiences two rainy seasons. Southern Nigeria's primary rainy season runs from March to July, with a second short period of rain which typically lasts for a few weeks from September to mid-October. These seasonal rains are not as extensive as those experienced in the north of the country; however, flooding is possible during these periods, specifically in the Niger Delta and in cities adjacent to the coast.

Damage to public infrastructure and widespread disruptions to utility and water supplies are often reported and should be anticipated across the above-mentioned areas and elsewhere in the coming days. Travel disruptions affecting rail, road and possibly air travel in these areas are also likely in the short-term.

Anyone currently in southern and south east Nigeria is advised to be cautious and anticipate further disruptions, including travel disruptions. In addition, RPS recommends that travellers monitor local media for updates and advisories from the authorities. Road travel in the flood-affected areas of Lagos should be avoided as far as possible.

Thanks to Red24 for this information.

Map: thanks to wwwnc.cdc.gov