Severe Flooding in Accra, Ghana Causes Deaths and Displacement

Severe flooding in Accra, Ghana, on May 18, 2025, resulted in four fatalities and displaced over 3,000 residents. Heavy rains measuring 132.20 mm caused extensive flooding across multiple neighborhoods, disrupting daily life and transportation. Authorities have issued weather warnings as the situation continues to develop, urging residents in vulnerable areas to seek safety.
On May 18, 2025, heavy rainfall in Accra, Ghana, resulted in catastrophic flooding, tragically claiming the lives of four individuals and displacing over 3,000 residents. The National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) confirmed that just on that day, parts of Greater Accra received a record 132.20 mm (5.2 inches) of rain, which led to extensive disruptions across the city.
The flooding primarily impacted areas such as Weija, Kaneshie, Adabraka, Adentan-Dodowa, Oyarifa, and segments of Tema. The swift rising waters trapped vehicles, obstructed critical roads, and created significant traffic chaos, deeply affecting the daily lives of Accra’s inhabitants. Streets that were typically bustling turned into torrents, showcasing the severity of nature’s wrath.
In the aftermath, the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) provided insight into the storm’s origins, noting it had moved westward from neighboring countries, Benin and Togo. Residents were urged to brace for ongoing adverse weather conditions, with predictions of more thunderstorms and rainfall in coastal and interior regions of the country expected in the coming days.
On May 21, GMet issued a weather advisory warning of possible thunderstorms and heavy rains, affecting vital areas across the coastal, middle, and transition zones of Ghana. This alert indicated that the situation could worsen if residents did not heed the warnings.
Mr. Adu Bonsu Gabriel, the NADMO Director for the Ahafo region, strongly advised community members in flood-prone areas to seek refuge in safer locations. He emphasized the critical nature of early action to mitigate disaster impacts and protect lives. Residents are urged to take these warnings seriously to prevent further tragedies as the region grapples with a volatile climate.
As Accra continues to face significant hazards from extreme weather, it remains to be seen how effectively the city and its inhabitants can adapt to these changing conditions. Local authorities are working hard to manage both immediate relief efforts and long-term strategies to reduce flooding risks and safeguard communities for the future.
In summary, the recent heavy rains in Accra led to tragic losses and displacement for numerous individuals. As weather warnings continue, officials are urging residents to pay close attention and prepare adequately. Immediate action and community awareness appear essential in grappling with the increasing threats posed by climate-related events in the region.
Original Source: watchers.news