Floods and Storms Devastate Accra, Ghana, with 13 Dead and More Rain Expected BODY: Accra, Ghana — A devastating double disaster has struck the capital city of Accra, Ghana, as torrential rains have led to severe flooding, killing at least 13 people, and a major fire at a rubber factory, exacerbated by the floodwaters.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNF) is actively involved in rescue efforts, with the government issuing warnings about the ongoing danger.
The flooding began on June 23, 2026, following heavy downpours that overwhelmed the city’s drainage infrastructure. Over 470 people have been rescued so far, but the death toll is expected to rise as recovery operations continue. Social media videos show homes and vehicles submerged, and numerous buildings destroyed.
Emergency response teams from the police, fire service, military, and National Disaster Management Organisation are deployed to the affected areas.
The President’s office has advised residents to stay indoors or move to higher ground and to avoid crossing flooded roads.
The meteorological agency has warned that further rain is expected, with a big storm approaching from the east.
The flooding has also led to a major fire at a rubber factory in Accra, which the GNF has been working tirelessly to control. Some residents have become trapped in their homes due to the floodwaters. President Nana Akufo-Addo has attributed the worsening flooding in Accra to climate change and unchecked urbanization.
He has ordered the demolition of illegal structures on waterways, which exacerbate flooding. WaterAid Ghana’s director Ewurabena Yanyi-Akofur has called for stronger urban planning and preparedness measures to safeguard communities before, during, and after extreme weather events.
The situation in Accra is a stark reminder of the challenges posed by climate change and urbanization in Africa.
As Accra rebuilds from this devastating event, it will be crucial for the city to invest in necessary infrastructure and planning to prevent such tragedies in the future.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: BBC Africa
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