The Oyo State Government has raised a flood alert for parts of Ibadan, urging residents in Akinyele, Egbeda, and Oluyole Local Government Areas to take precautionary measures against possible flash floods.
The warning was issued on Friday in a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, following an updated forecast from the Flood Early Warning System predicting heavy rainfall within the next 24 hours.
According to Oyelade, some locations may receive over 100mm of rainfall, with the most intense showers expected around the north-eastern axis of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and the Ibadan Airport.
“This alert is necessary to prompt local government authorities and communities to prepare and take action that could prevent loss of lives, displacement of residents, and serious damage to properties and public infrastructure,” he said.
OYSEMA identified key flood-prone zones including the IITA area in Akinyele, the airport in Egbeda, and the Cocoa Research Institute in Oluyole. Residents in low-lying neighborhoods were specifically advised to remain alert.
The agency also cautioned that flash flooding may quickly submerge streets, creating dangerous driving conditions. “Heavy rain will make driving hazardous,” Oyelade warned, adding, “Do not drive or walk through floodwaters. Turn around, don’t drown.”
Residents in vulnerable areas were advised to prepare for possible evacuation to higher ground and to stay in close communication with local authorities.
The state government reiterated its commitment to public safety and called for community cooperation to minimize the impact of the forecasted rainfall.
