Heavy rainfall caused deadly flooding across Accra, the capital of Ghana, leaving at least 13 people dead and forcing emergency teams to rescue hundreds of residents. Authorities have warned that another storm is approaching, increasing the risk of more flooding in the coming hours.
Torrential Rain Leaves Parts of Accra Underwater
A powerful overnight downpour flooded streets, homes, and businesses across several neighborhoods in Accra. Water quickly covered low lying areas, trapping residents inside their homes and leaving many vehicles stranded.
Emergency workers responded throughout the city as floodwaters spread rapidly. Videos shared online showed submerged houses, damaged buildings, and roads that had become impossible to use.
Officials said the number of deaths could rise as rescue teams continue searching the affected communities.
Rescue Teams Save Hundreds of Residents
Emergency services launched large scale rescue operations soon after the flooding began. Firefighters, police officers, military personnel, and disaster response teams worked together to reach stranded families.
According to the Ghana National Fire Service, rescue crews have already helped more than 470 people reach safety. Teams remain on alert because some residents are still trapped in flooded neighborhoods.
The Interior Ministry said security personnel will continue monitoring affected areas to protect both lives and property during the emergency.
Government Urges Residents to Stay Safe
Government officials asked residents to stay indoors if they are already in a safe place. People living in flood affected homes have been advised to move to higher ground immediately.
Authorities also warned everyone to avoid walking or driving through flooded roads because strong currents can quickly become dangerous. Residents needing emergency assistance have been instructed to contact emergency services without delay.
Heavy Rainfall Raises Climate Concerns
President John Mahama said preliminary weather data showed that approximately 140 millimeters of rain fell over Accra during the storm. He noted that the city’s highest single day rainfall last year measured only about 56 millimeters.
The unusually heavy rainfall has raised fresh concerns about the growing impact of climate change on extreme weather events in the region.
More Rain Expected Across Southern Ghana
The Ghana Meteorological Agency has warned that another storm system moving from the east could bring additional rainfall across southern Ghana, including Accra.
Weather officials advised residents to avoid sheltering beneath trees, stay away from damaged electrical wires, and never attempt to cross floodwaters on foot or by vehicle.
Emergency authorities remain on high alert as they continue rescue operations and prepare for the possibility of further flooding.
Accra Faces Growing Flood Risks
Accra is one of Africa’s fastest growing cities and is home to more than four million people. Rapid urban growth, combined with intense seasonal rainfall, has increased the city’s vulnerability to flooding in recent years.
As recovery efforts continue, officials are urging residents to follow safety instructions and remain prepared until weather conditions improve.
