‘Dangerous, Extreme Heat Coming;’ Lagos Warns Pregnant Women, Children, Outdoor Workers

● El-Nino, Dry Season Collision Impeding: Full advisory Lagos gave on rising temperatures across parts of Africa, including Nigeria

The Lagos State Government has warned residents to prepare for possible extreme heat and associated environmental and public health challenges as climate outlooks indicate rising temperatures across parts of Africa, including Nigeria.

The advisory was issued on Friday, October 30, 2026, by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, in a statement signed by the ministry’s Director of Public Affairs, Kunle Adeshina.

According to the government, the warning is linked to the strengthening El Niño climate pattern and the transition into the dry season, which could bring unusual temperature increases, dry spells, dust and deteriorating air quality.

Wahab explained that while the intensity and local impact would depend on prevailing weather patterns, residents must take the emerging climate risks seriously as the state enters a critical phase of the season.

He noted that Lagos, as a densely populated and rapidly urbanising coastal city, could face heightened exposure to extreme heat compared to other regions.

“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,” Wahab said.

The commissioner warned that prolonged exposure to excessive heat could cause dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke, with potentially serious consequences if not treated promptly.

He identified the most vulnerable groups to include children, older persons, pregnant women, outdoor workers, street traders, construction workers, waste handlers and people with underlying health conditions.

The government also cautioned that extreme heat could worsen existing air-quality challenges, particularly during the dry season when dust and haze might increase and aggravate respiratory conditions.

Residents were urged to adopt simple preventive measures, including drinking sufficient water, wearing lightweight clothing, seeking shaded and ventilated spaces, and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat periods.

Wahab advised the public to watch out for warning signs of heat-related illnesses such as excessive sweating, dizziness, headache, weakness, nausea and muscle cramps, and to seek immediate medical attention where necessary, noting that sudden collapse should be treated as an emergency.

He assured that the ministry would continue to raise awareness about emerging environmental risks and work 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.