Residents of Oyo State have been urged to take extra care as the 2026 rainy season gradually begins across the state. The government warned that heavy rainfall in the coming weeks may lead to flash floods, overflowing roads and occasional thunderstorms in some communities.
The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources in Oyo State, Ademola Aderinto, gave the advise in Ibadan, on Friday while explaining that the early rains are expected to come with high intensity. According to him, the ground is still firm in many areas, making it difficult for water to soak into the soil quickly and causing runoff on roads and drainage channels.
Despite the warning, the commissioner appealed to residents not to panic, noting that most of the flooding expected at this stage of the season would only be temporary. He, however, stressed that blocked waterways and drainage channels could worsen the situation and lead to more serious flooding in affected areas.
Aderinto also cautioned against indiscriminate dumping of refuse and illegal dredging activities, saying such actions could obstruct the free flow of water and damage public infrastructure. He added that stagnant water on roads may increase the risk of accidents and weaken road surfaces if not properly managed.
The Commissioner further revealed that residents may experience occasional heat waves as the season changes, with temperatures expected to rise between 33 and 35 degrees Celsius. He advised people to drink enough water, avoid staying too long under direct sunlight and seek cooler environments when necessary, while assuring that the government would continue monitoring weather and environmental conditions across the state.