Osun govt warns residents over imminent flooding, heavy rainfall

The Osun State Government has warned residents across the state to prepare for possible heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and windstorms as the rainy season intensifies.

The warning was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Director-General and Special Envoy to the Governor on Climate Change and Renewable Energy, Prof. Chinwe Obuaku.

According to the statement, “recent meteorological forecasts and environmental observations showed that several communities in the state could experience intense rainfall capable of causing flooding, erosion, destruction of property, and traffic disruptions.”

The government also warned that the expected weather conditions could lead to loss of lives if residents failed to observe necessary safety measures during the period.

It advised people living in flood-prone areas, riverbank communities, low-lying environments, and locations with poor drainage systems to exercise maximum caution throughout the season.

“The government directed residents to immediately clear blocked drainage channels and waterways around homes, offices, markets, and business premises to ensure free flow of water,” the statement said.

The government cautioned residents against indiscriminate dumping of refuse into drainage systems, canals, and water passages, noting that such practices contribute significantly to flooding and environmental disasters.

Residents were also advised to “avoid unnecessary movement during heavy rainfall and stay away from flooded roads, bridges, and fast-flowing water to prevent accidents and other dangers associated with extreme weather.”

The statement urged members of the public to secure rooftops, weak structures, electric poles, trees, and signboards against possible destruction caused by strong winds and thunderstorms.

It appealed to parents and guardians to closely monitor children during periods of heavy rainfall and other extreme weather conditions across the state.

According to the statement, “residents should promptly report incidents of flooding, erosion, drainage blockage, and fallen trees to relevant government authorities for immediate intervention and response.”

The government stated that emergency response teams and relevant agencies had already been placed on alert to intensify monitoring and rapid response operations, while stressing that prevention and personal responsibility remained essential in reducing avoidable disasters during the rainy season.