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🇳🇬 Nigeria /Disasters & Emergencies

Oyo warns residents of flash floods, 35°C heatwaves

From The Punch · (35m ago) English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • The Oyo State Government has issued an advisory warning residents about potential flash floods and high temperatures during the 2026 rainy season.
  • Officials cited high-intensity rainfall, limited soil infiltration, and potential obstructions to drainage systems as causes for temporary flooding.
  • Residents are urged to take precautionary measures, stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and refrain from activities that could block waterways.

The Oyo State Government is proactively engaging with its citizens to mitigate the risks associated with the onset of the 2026 rainy season. Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Ademola Aderinto, has issued a public advisory, emphasizing the need for precautionary measures against flash floods and rising temperatures.

The soil across the state is still relatively firm, limiting water infiltration and causing heavy surface runoff on roads, drainages, and some communities. Residents should not panic, as most flooding is expected to be temporary.

— Ademola AderintoExplaining the causes of potential flooding in Oyo State.

The warning highlights that the state is expected to experience intense rainfall and thunderstorms. A key concern is the soil's current firmness, which limits water absorption and leads to significant surface runoff. This can cause temporary flooding on roads and in communities, though the government assures that most flooding is anticipated to be short-lived.

However, the advisory strongly cautions against activities that could exacerbate the situation. Residents are urged not to obstruct or tamper with cleared waterways and drainage channels, as this could prolong and intensify flooding. The government is also calling for a suspension of illegal dredging and any other actions that disrupt natural water flow. Such disruptions not only threaten public facilities and infrastructure but also increase accident risks.

However, temporary flooding could become prolonged and destructive if waterways and drainage channels cleared by the government are obstructed or tampered with.

— Ademola AderintoWarning residents about the consequences of obstructing drainage systems.

Beyond the immediate flood concerns, the transition into the rainy season is also expected to bring heatwaves, with temperatures potentially reaching 33 to 35°C. Residents are advised to stay hydrated, seek cool environments, and minimize sun exposure. The government reaffirms its commitment to continuous monitoring of environmental conditions across the state, aiming to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens during this period.

The state government is using this period to call for the suspension of illegal dredging and any activity that could disrupt natural water flow.

— Ademola AderintoAnnouncing measures to prevent disruptions to natural water flow.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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