The Lagos State Government has warned residents, particularly children, pregnant women, elderly persons and outdoor workers, to take necessary precautions against possible extreme heat conditions linked to the strengthening El Niño climate pattern and the transition into the dry season.
The warning was issued by the State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, in a statement released on Friday by the ministry’s Director of Public Affairs, Kunle Adeshina.
Wahab explained that the anticipated weather conditions could trigger unusual increases in temperature, prolonged dry spells, dust and deteriorating air quality, potentially exposing residents to various health and environmental risks.
He noted that Lagos, being a densely populated and rapidly urbanising coastal city, could experience heightened exposure to extreme heat due to its growing concentration of buildings, roads and other infrastructure that absorb and retain heat.
According to the commissioner, limited green spaces and inadequate ventilation in some neighbourhoods could further intensify temperatures, particularly in heavily built-up areas of the state.
He warned that prolonged exposure to excessive heat could result in dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke, which could lead to serious health complications if not promptly addressed.
The commissioner identified children, older persons, pregnant women, street traders, construction workers, waste handlers, outdoor workers and individuals with underlying health conditions as groups that could be particularly vulnerable to the anticipated conditions.
He therefore urged families, employers, school authorities and community leaders to pay special attention to vulnerable persons and ensure that appropriate protective measures were put in place to minimise their exposure to excessive heat.
Wahab advised residents to drink sufficient water regularly, wear lightweight and breathable clothing, seek shade and well-ventilated environments, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest periods of the day.
He also called on schools, markets, workplaces and other public facilities to provide adequate ventilation, drinking water and shaded spaces where people could take breaks, particularly during periods of intense sunshine.
The commissioner further warned that the anticipated extreme heat could worsen existing air-quality challenges, especially during the dry season when increased dust and haze could aggravate respiratory conditions.
He explained that people living with respiratory illnesses could experience worsening symptoms, while increased dependence on petrol- and diesel-powered generators during power outages could further contribute to local air pollution.
Wahab consequently urged residents to avoid open burning of refuse, limit exposure to dusty environments and adopt environmentally friendly practices that would help protect public health and improve air quality.
He also advised residents to remain alert to symptoms of heat-related illnesses, including excessive sweating, dizziness, headaches, weakness, nausea and muscle cramps.
The commissioner stressed that sudden collapse or loss of consciousness should be treated as a medical emergency requiring immediate attention, while people with respiratory conditions should follow relevant health and air-quality advisories.
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Beyond immediate personal safety measures, Wahab called for stronger collaboration among government agencies, environmental experts, health institutions, businesses and community stakeholders to improve preparedness and response to the anticipated environmental challenges.
He urged residents and businesses to protect existing trees, plant more trees, preserve green spaces and ensure proper waste disposal, noting that such measures could help reduce urban heat and environmental degradation.
Wahab assured Lagos residents that the ministry would continue to intensify public awareness campaigns on emerging environmental risks and collaborate with relevant institutions, including the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, the state Ministry of Health and the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, to strengthen preparedness and response.
He reiterated the importance of collective responsibility in protecting public health and the environment, urging residents to take the warning seriously and adopt preventive measures ahead of the anticipated weather conditions.
