The Lagos State Government has announced that the state will experience above-normal rainfall amounts during the first peak of the 2025 rainy season, while normal rainfall amounts are expected during the second peak. This forecast was disclosed during the Seasonal Climate Predictions (SCP) press briefing held at Alausa, Ikeja, on Wednesday.
Addressing the media, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, explained that the annual SCP briefing serves as a proactive measure to inform and educate residents about the predicted rainfall patterns and their socio-economic implications. He emphasized that the initiative is part of the state government’s commitment to promoting public awareness and preparedness.
According to the Commissioner, the rainy season in Lagos is expected to commence in the last week of March and end in the first week of December, with an average annual rainfall amount predicted at 1,936 millimeters. This figure exceeds the long-term average recorded between 1991 and 2020.
Mr. Wahab stated that the forecast is based on the neutral phase of the El-Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), which is projected to persist for the first six to eight months of the year. As a result, Lagos is expected to experience an early onset, prolonged duration, and delayed end of the rainy season.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) had earlier released its 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction on February 4th, outlining the expected rainfall, temperature, and other weather patterns across the country. The Lagos State Government has aligned its forecast with NiMET’s predictions to ensure accurate and comprehensive weather updates.
Providing a breakdown of the expected rainfall onset and cessation dates across major areas in Lagos, Mr. Wahab stated as follows:
- Ikeja: Onset on April 2nd, cessation on December 2nd, with an annual rainfall amount of 1,900mm.
- Badagry: Onset on March 30th, cessation on December 4th, with an annual rainfall amount of 1,978mm.
- Ikorodu: Onset on April 2nd, cessation on December 3rd, with an annual rainfall amount of 1,903mm.
- Lagos Island: Onset on April 1st, cessation on December 3rd, with an annual rainfall amount of 1,936mm.
- Epe: Onset on March 31st, cessation on December 4th, with an annual rainfall amount of 1,952mm.
The Commissioner noted that similar rainfall patterns are expected in neighboring Ogun State, indicating that the entire region should brace for significant rainfall.
Mr. Wahab warned that the anticipated heavy rainfall could lead to flash floods, particularly during the onset and end of the rainy season. He advised residents to remain vigilant as strong winds associated with the rainy period might pose risks to lives and properties, disrupt commercial activities, and cause flight delays, which could result in revenue loss.
He assured Lagosians that the State Government is well-prepared to tackle potential challenges, as flood control measures are being intensified to mitigate the impact of the anticipated rainfall. Collaboration with NiMET and other stakeholders will continue to ensure accurate weather forecasts and timely early warning dissemination.
“The Ministry is committed to leveraging the Seasonal Climate Prediction as an essential tool for farmers, planners, decision-makers, and operators of various sectors whose activities may be impacted by the rainfall. We are confident that our rigorous planning and robust flood control strategies will help mitigate any adverse effects,” Wahab said.
The Lagos State Government urged residents to take necessary precautions and stay informed of weather updates as the rainy season approaches.
