At least 13 people have died in Ghana's capital, Accra, following severe flooding caused by torrential rain, according to the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS). Emergency response teams, including police, military, and the National Disaster Management Organisation, have been deployed to the affected areas to safeguard lives and property. The GNFS reported rescuing over 470 people thus far.
Much of the floodwaters have begun to recede, but officials warn that the death toll could rise. Low-lying areas were particularly impacted, with social media footage showing submerged homes and vehicles, and significant structural damage to buildings. A major fire also broke out at a rubber factory in the city due to the floods.
The government has urged residents to stay indoors if they are in safe locations and to avoid traveling through flooded areas. Those whose homes are inundated are advised to move immediately to higher ground and contact emergency services. Approximately 140mm of rain descended on Accra, a figure significantly higher than the 56mm recorded on the highest rainfall day last year, leading to suggestions that climate change may be a contributing factor.
The Ghana Meteorological Agency has issued warnings for further rainfall expected to affect parts of southern Ghana, including Accra, on Tuesday. Residents have been advised to avoid sheltering under trees, stay clear of loose electrical wires, and not to walk or drive through floodwaters.
Accra, one of Africa's fastest-growing cities with a population exceeding four million, is experiencing the impact of this severe weather event. Residents described their experiences of homes being flooded, with one individual noting that a collection of vinyl records was submerged. Another resident, a schoolteacher, recounted efforts to keep water out of her room and the difficulty of exiting due to the flooding both inside and outside her home.