The Oyo State Government has issued a public advisory warning residents about potential flash floods and heatwaves as the 2026 rainy season begins. Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Ademola Aderinto, made the announcement in a statement released on Saturday in Ibadan. He said high-intensity rainfall could lead to temporary road overflows and flooding, particularly as soil across the state remains firm and limits water infiltration. This condition, he explained, increases surface runoff on roads, drainages, and some communities.

Aderinto emphasized that most flooding is expected to be temporary but could become prolonged if waterways and drainage channels are obstructed. He attributed potential blockages to illegal dredging and tampering with cleared channels. The government urged residents to refrain from activities that disrupt natural water flow and to avoid indiscriminate waste disposal. Damage to infrastructure, higher accident risks, and threats to public facilities were cited as possible consequences of stagnant water on roads.

The commissioner also warned of occasional heatwaves during the transition into the rainy season, with temperatures reaching between 33°C and 35°C. Residents were advised to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure, remain in cool environments, and seek shade when necessary. Aderinto assured the public that the government is actively monitoring environmental conditions across the state. He reiterated calls for compliance with environmental guidelines to reduce risks associated with the changing weather.

💡 NaijaBuzz Take

Aderinto warns of flooding linked to blocked drains, yet his own statement admits the government has only cleared some channels, not all. Residents in areas with uncleared or poorly maintained drainages face higher risks despite the advisory. The warning places responsibility on citizens while sidestepping the state's incomplete infrastructure work. Oyo's weather response appears reactive, not preventive.

Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion, not established fact. Full disclaimer →