The Lagos State Government on Monday urged residents to remain calm after more than 12 hours of heavy rainfall triggered fears of flash flooding in parts of the coastal city.

State Environment Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab said new forecasts from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency warned of rain and thunderstorms for the next three days, with some areas at risk of flash floods due to overfilled drainage systems.

He cited Lagos’ coastal geography and rising lagoon levels as factors that could lead to “tidal lock”, preventing drainage discharge.

Wahab advised residents, particularly children on school holidays, to stay indoors, avoid playing in floodwaters, and for motorists and pedestrians not to wade through inundated areas.

He warned against dumping refuse in drains, noting such actions worsen flooding. The state, he added, is stepping up year-round drainage cleaning and infrastructure upgrades, though extreme downpours still require “concerted efforts” from residents to limit damage.