The rainy season is almost here, the weather is cooler, the air feels fresh, and it’s the perfect time to enjoy a hot bowl of pepper soup but along with the rain comes a big problem, flooding.

Every year, heavy rains lead to floods in different parts of Nigeria like Lagos, Benue, Bayelsa, and Anambra which often experience serious damage.

Homes are washed away, farms are destroyed sometimes, lives are lost. The problem keeps getting worse because of climate change, poor drainage, and people dumping waste in the wrong places.

While the government has a big role to play in solving this issue, we as citizens can also do our part.

What You Can Do to Prevent Flooding

Before you focus on buying rain boots and umbrellas, here are a few simple ways to help prevent flooding:

Dispose of waste properly

Don’t throw trash into gutters, rivers, or drains. This blocks water from flowing.

Keep drainages clean

Clear out any dirt or trash that might block water from passing through.

Avoid dumping large items

Things like old furniture, car parts, and tyres can block water channels and cause flooding.

Don’t build on flood-prone areas

Some lands naturally help absorb excess water. Building on them can make flooding worse.

Report illegal dumping

If you see people throwing waste into gutters, report them to the authorities.

How to Stay Safe During Floods

If you live in an area that often floods, take extra caution and here’s what you can do:

Be aware of your surroundings

Know if your area is flood-prone and take steps to prepare.

Drive carefully

Roads can be slippery when wet. Drive slowly and turn on your headlights.

Stay away from floodwaters

Flood water can carry germs, chemicals, and even snakes. Avoid walking or driving through it.

Listen to weather updates

Check reports from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and NEMA to know when heavy rain is expected.

We may not be able to stop the rain, but we can work together to keep our cities safe. Let’s take small steps to prevent flooding and protect our homes.