Lagos anticipates unprecedented rainfall in 2024

By Mohammed Adekola

The Lagos State Government announced on Tuesday an expectation of unusually high rainfall for the 2024 season across the state, with a total forecast of 1936.2 mm.

Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, delivered this announcement at a press briefing on the Seasonal Climate Predictions (SCP) and their socio-economic impacts on Lagos State, held at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Alausa.

According to the Commissioner, the predicted average annual rainfall for 2024 is 1936.2mm, exceeding the long-term average of 1721.48mm. The rainfall is expected to begin in the first week of April and end in the first week of December.

Specifically, Ikeja is forecasted to have rainfall starting on 4th April and ending on 4th December, with a total of 1900mm. Badagry is expected to experience rainfall from 1st April to 5th December, accumulating 1978mm.

For Ikorodu, the anticipated rainfall is set to commence on 4th April and conclude on 4th December, totalling 1903mm for the year. Mr. Wahab also mentioned that Lagos Island should expect its rainfall to begin on 3rd April and cease on 4th December, with an annual total of 1936mm. In Epe, rainfall is expected to start on 2nd April and end on 5th December, with a total of 1952mm for the year.

The announcement also highlighted that the first half of the rainy season is expected to bring below-normal rainfall amounts, while the second half is predicted to experience normal to above-normal amounts.