Accra Flood Death Toll Climbs to 13 as More Heavy Rain Looms
Hundreds rescued after torrential rains submerged communities, disrupted power supply and triggered a factory fire.
- 13 people killed as severe flooding hit Accra following torrential rainfall.
- Over 470 residents rescued, with more heavy rain expected in southern Ghana
- Government deploys emergency teams and orders demolition of illegal structures blocking waterways
At least 13 people have died after torrential rains triggered severe flooding across Ghana’s capital, Accra, prompting large-scale rescue operations and fresh warnings of more heavy rainfall.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), which has been leading rescue efforts, said the death toll could increase as search and recovery operations continue. More than 470 people have already been rescued from flood-affected communities.
The government has urged residents to remain indoors if they are safe or move to higher ground, while the Ghana Meteorological Agency has warned that another storm approaching from the east could bring additional rainfall and increase the risk of flooding.
Although floodwaters from Sunday’s downpour have begun to recede in some areas, extensive damage has already been recorded. Low-lying communities were the hardest hit, with homes, businesses and vehicles submerged. Videos circulating on social media showed entire neighbourhoods under water.
Emergency personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service, Ghana Police Service, the Ghana Armed Forces and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) have been deployed to assist affected residents and protect lives and property.
The flooding also sparked a major fire at a rubber factory in Accra, further complicating emergency response efforts.
In a public advisory, the Presidency urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel.
“Stay indoors if you are in a safe location. Do not attempt to cross flooded roads, whether on foot or in a vehicle. If your home is being inundated, move immediately to higher ground and call 112 for emergency assistance,” the statement said.
President John Dramani Mahama disclosed that preliminary data showed approximately 140 millimetres of rainfall fell over Accra—more than double the highest single-day rainfall of about 56 millimetres recorded last year. He said the sharp increase highlights the growing impact of climate change.
The Ghana Meteorological Agency has warned that more rainfall is expected across parts of southern Ghana, including Accra, and advised the public to avoid floodwaters, loose electrical wires and sheltering under trees.
The flooding has also disrupted essential services. The Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) and the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) temporarily cut power to several affected areas after floodwaters damaged electrical substations, citing safety concerns.
Authorities say recurring floods in Accra are worsened by poor drainage systems, clogged gutters and illegal structures built on waterways.
Following an aerial inspection of the capital, President Mahama ordered the demolition of illegal structures obstructing waterways, describing them as a major threat to public safety.
The disaster has renewed calls for improved urban planning and climate resilience. WaterAid Ghana Country Director Ewurabena Yanyi-Akofur said the flooding reflects the combined effects of climate change and rapid, unplanned urbanisation, stressing the need for stronger preparedness measures to protect vulnerable communities.
