The Oyo State government has warned residents to take precautionary measures against flash floods, thunderstorms, road overflows and rising temperatures as the rainy season sets in.
Ademola Aderinto issued the advisory in a recent statement in Ibadan.
Aderinto said the state could experience flash floods and thunderstorms due to high-intensity rainfall associated with the onset of the rainy season.
According to him, the soil across the state remains relatively firm, limiting water infiltration and leading to heavy surface runoff on roads, drainage channels and in some communities.
He urged residents not to panic, noting that most flooding incidents are expected to be temporary.
However, he warned that flooding could become prolonged and destructive if waterways and drainage channels cleared by the government are blocked or tampered with.
The commissioner also advised residents to suspend illegal dredging activities and avoid actions capable of disrupting the natural flow of water.
He said prolonged water retention on roads could damage infrastructure, increase the risk of accidents and threaten public facilities across the state.
Aderinto reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring free water flow across the state and cautioned residents against indiscriminate waste disposal and other environmental violations.
He further warned that occasional heat waves may occur during the transition into the rainy season, with temperatures expected to range between 33 and 35 degrees Celsius.
Residents were advised to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, remain in cool environments and seek shade when necessary.
The commissioner added that the state government would continue monitoring environmental conditions and issue safety advisories when required.
