Accra floods: 12 dead, 150 rescued as Government launches Emergency Response
ACCRA, Ghana
Devastating floods triggered by heavy rains on June 29 have killed 12 people in Greater Accra, with emergency teams rescuing 150 others as the government ramps up its response across the capital.
The downpour left parts of Accra, Tema, Kasoa, Tse Addo, and Afienya submerged, cutting off roads, disrupting power, and forcing schools and courts to suspend activities.
The Toll: Deaths and Rescues Across Accra
The Ghana National Fire Service and other emergency teams confirmed 12 fatalities and 150 rescues over 24 hours during the rains. Among the dead were a woman and two children recovered from floodwaters in Dome.
Other areas hit hard include Afienya, where emergency teams were deployed to evacuate residents, and Tse Addo, which was partially submerged. The Ghana Health Service has warned of disease risks and reptile encounters as stagnant water remains in affected communities.
Government Response: From Aerial Inspections to On-Ground Action
President John Dramani Mahama addressed the crisis with an aerial inspection of flood-hit areas, followed by a statement on the way forward for Accra. He outlined a plan to decongest the capital to reduce future flood risks.
Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Ocloo directed all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives to intensify flood response efforts. Emergency teams have been deployed to Accra, Tema, and Kasoa, while the Ghana National Fire Service mobilized rescue units following morning floods.
To protect lives, electricity was shut down at the Mallam and Achimota (Dzorwulu) substations. The Ghana Meteorological Agency also warned that more rain is expected this week, with cloudy skies and intermittent rainfall forecast for southern Ghana.
Community Support and Disruptions
The Methodist Church has opened its facilities to flood victims as Accra battles the rains. In education, the Ghana School of Law postponed exams due to the flooding.
Officials are urging residents to stay indoors, avoid walking through floodwaters, and move to higher ground where necessary.
What’s Next
With more rain forecast, authorities say the priority is rescue, relief, and preventing a public health outbreak. President Mahama’s decongestion plan is expected to be a key part of long-term flood mitigation in Accra.
Residents in flood-prone areas are advised to monitor updates from NADMO and GMet and call emergency lines if trapped.
About The Author
