The first major rain in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Friday, which started at 5.30 pm with heavy winds and strong downpour, wreaked havoc across the city with many houses destroyed and a bridge in Amuloko, Ona-Ara Local Council washed away.

During and after the rain, dirt and rainwater overflowed to the roads due to clogged drainage. There was also traffic gridlock on major roads.

A resident, Alice Aborishade said it was imperative for dwellers to stop clogging the waterways to avert flooding. “Let everyone take a cue from the past and stop the act of pouring dirt into waterways.”

A community leader, Mr. Akin Amao, said the rain would help reduce the heat being experienced at present.

“I am sure farmers will be delighted as it will help prepare for farming this year.” In Amuloko, the torrential rain completely washed off the alternative route provided to ease free movement following the ongoing reconstruction of Tioya Bridge.