The alert was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade.

The Oyo State Emergency Management Agency (OYSEMA) has issued a flash flood warning for residents of Ibadan, with particular concern for those living in Akinyele, Egbeda, and Oluyole Local Government Areas of the State.

The alert was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade.

According to Oyelade, the warning was sequel to the latest weather forecast from the Flood Early Warning System, which indicated that heavy rainfall is expected within the next 24 hours in the affected areas.

“The advice has become imperative to activate the concerned Local Government Authorities and communities to take necessary actions to mitigate the risk of flooding and avoid loss of lives, displacement, and significant damage to property and infrastructure,” Oyelade stated.

Oyelade added that some areas could receive over 100mm (about 4 inches) of rain, with the heaviest rainfall predicted to occur in the North-East of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and around the Ibadan Airport.

Oyelade highlighted key flood-prone areas including the surroundings of IITA in Akinyele LGA, the airport in Egbeda LGA, and the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria in Oluyole LGA.

The agency warned that flash floods could quickly inundate low-lying streets, making roads difficult or even impossible to use.

“Heavy rain will make driving hazardous,” Oyelade cautioned. 

“Residents are urged to avoid driving or walking through floodwaters. Turn around, don’t drown. If you live in a flood-prone area, be prepared to move to higher ground if instructed.”

The state government urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with local authorities to ensure safety and reduce potential flood damage.