Climate Change Impact in My Local Community: Urban Flooding and Heat Stress in Lagos/Anambra.
One climate change-induced impact affecting my community is increasing urban flooding, especially during the rainy season. Rainfall patterns have become more intense, unpredictable, and prolonged. This has affected cities like Lagos and Anambra communities such as Awka and Onitsha. Flooding now happens even after short periods of rainfall.
Challenges for the Community
• Disrupted movement and economic activities. Roads flood quickly and become impassable. This affects transportation, small businesses, and daily activities.
• Damage to homes and infrastructure. Poor drainage systems and blocked waterways worsen the impact. Many residential areas experience repeated flooding that destroys property.
• Public health risks. Stagnant water increases exposure to water-borne diseases and mosquito breeding. People living in low-income or crowded areas are more affected.
• Loss of livelihoods. Street vendors, traders, and small shop owners experience heavy financial losses when markets flood.
• Heat stress. Beyond flooding, extreme heat is rising. Many households without stable electricity face increased heat exposure, especially at night.
How My Community Is Responding
• Local government drainage projects. Some states have started clearing blocked gutters and expanding drainage channels, although progress is uneven.
• Community-led cleanup efforts. Neighborhood groups often organize monthly drainage clearing and waste removal since waste disposal systems are weak.
• Individual adaptation. Homeowners elevate house foundations, build small flood barriers, and install improved ventilation to cope with heatwaves.
• Digital awareness campaigns. Local influencers, NGOs, and climate advocates now create content to educate residents about waste disposal, heat safety, and early warning signals during heavy rainfall.
Reflection
Climate impacts in Nigeria are closely linked to human decisions, especially poor urban planning, weak waste management, and limited infrastructure. Local adaptation has started, but the scale of change needed is much larger. Strengthening community leadership, improving drainage planning, and integrating climate-smart urban design will reduce long-term risks.
This issue matters because it affects daily life, health, and economic stability for many families in my community.