The Lagos State Government has cautioned residents against possible extreme heat conditions as the state approaches the dry season, urging vulnerable groups to take necessary precautions.
Children, pregnant women, elderly people and those who work outdoors were specifically advised to protect themselves against the potential effects of rising temperatures.
The warning was linked to the strengthening El Niño climate pattern and the seasonal transition, which the government said could lead to unusually high temperatures, dry spells, increased dust levels and declining air quality.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, gave the advisory in a statement issued on Friday by the ministry’s Director of Public Affairs, Kunle Adeshina.
Wahab noted that Lagos could be particularly exposed to extreme heat because of its high population and rapid urban development.
He explained that the large concentration of buildings, roads and other structures that absorb and retain heat, combined with limited green spaces and poor ventilation in some communities, could make temperatures higher in built-up areas.
“The concentration of buildings, roads and other heat-absorbing infrastructure, coupled with limited green spaces and inadequate ventilation in some neighbourhoods, could intensify temperatures in built-up areas,” he said.
The commissioner warned that spending long periods in excessive heat could result in dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke, which could become life-threatening without prompt medical attention.
He listed children, older people, pregnant women, outdoor workers, street traders, construction workers, waste handlers and individuals with underlying health conditions among those at greater risk.
Wahab called on families, employers, school authorities and community leaders to pay close attention to vulnerable individuals and ensure they have access to adequate protection.
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He also warned that the expected weather conditions could worsen existing air pollution, particularly during the dry season when dust and haze may trigger respiratory problems.
People living with respiratory illnesses, he said, could experience more severe symptoms, while increased use of petrol- and diesel-powered generators during power outages could further affect air quality.
He therefore advised residents to avoid burning refuse in the open and embrace practices that protect the environment.
As part of the safety measures, the commissioner urged residents to drink enough water throughout the day, wear light and breathable clothing, stay in shaded or well-ventilated places and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest hours.
He also encouraged schools, markets, workplaces and other public facilities to provide drinking water, proper ventilation and shaded spaces where people could rest.
Wahab further advised residents to recognise warning signs of heat-related illnesses, such as excessive sweating, dizziness, headaches, weakness, nausea and muscle cramps.
“Sudden collapse or loss of consciousness should be treated as medical emergencies requiring immediate attention.
“Residents with respiratory conditions are also advised to limit exposure to dusty environments and follow relevant health and air-quality advisories,” the statement added.
The commissioner called for stronger cooperation among government agencies, environmental professionals, healthcare institutions, businesses and community groups to improve the state’s preparedness for the expected conditions.
He also urged residents and businesses to preserve existing trees, plant more, protect green spaces and dispose of waste properly to help reduce urban heat and environmental damage.
Wahab assured the public that the ministry would continue to educate residents on emerging environmental threats and collaborate with relevant agencies, including the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, the Lagos State Ministry of Health and the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, to improve preparedness and response.