LAGOS GOVERNMENT WARNS RESIDENTS OF POSSIBLE EXTREME HEAT AS DRY SEASON APPROACHES
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By: Muftau Fatimo
The Lagos State Government has warned residents to prepare for possible extreme heat conditions as the dry season approaches and the El Niño climate pattern strengthens.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, issued the warning in a statement shared on his X handle on Sunday.
Wahab cautioned that rising temperatures could increase cases of dehydration, heat discomfort, respiratory problems and poor air quality, particularly among vulnerable groups, including children, older persons, pregnant women and outdoor workers.
He attributed Lagos’ vulnerability to its high population density, rapid urbanisation, limited green spaces and densely built-up environment, which could intensify the urban heat effect.
According to him, the anticipated weather conditions could pose additional health risks to residents, making early preparation and preventive measures necessary.
“As Lagos prepares for possible extreme heat conditions associated with the strengthening El Niño climate pattern and the transition into the dry season, I urge all residents to take necessary precautions to protect their health and wellbeing,” he said.
The commissioner advised residents to drink plenty of water, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, wear light clothing and limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest periods of the day.
He also urged market associations, schools, business owners, community leaders and employers to prioritise access to clean drinking water, shaded spaces and proper ventilation, particularly for people working outdoors.
Residents were further advised to avoid open burning of refuse and adopt environmentally friendly practices to reduce factors contributing to rising temperatures.
Wahab also called for the protection of existing trees, increased tree planting, preservation of green spaces and responsible waste disposal to address environmental factors that worsen urban heat.
He assured residents that the state government would continue to strengthen public awareness and collaborate with relevant agencies and stakeholders to improve preparedness and response to extreme heat.
The statement added that households, businesses and communities must also take collective responsibility for protecting public health and making Lagos more resilient to climate-related challenges.
El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon characterised by warmer-than-normal sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. It can influence atmospheric circulation and alter rainfall and temperature patterns in different parts of the world.
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