Accra Floods Kill Three as Heavy Rain Triggers Widespread Damage Across Ghana's Capital

At least three people have died after Accra floods triggered by torrential rainfall swept through several parts of Ghana's capital on Monday, forcing emergency rescue operations and leaving homes, businesses and major roads underwater.

According to authorities and local media reports, the heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding across the city. Emergency responders, supported by the police, military and fire service, were deployed to rescue stranded residents as floodwaters rapidly rose in several communities.

President John Mahama said Accra recorded about 140 millimetres of rainfall in a single day, describing it as the highest amount experienced in several years and nearly three times higher than the highest daily rainfall recorded last year.

The President attributed the disaster partly to climate change but also blamed unchecked urbanisation and the construction of buildings on waterways, which continue to worsen flooding in the capital.

He said climate change remains a major factor beyond human control but stressed that illegal structures blocking drainage channels have increased the impact of heavy rainfall.

In the eastern suburb of Tse Addo, emergency workers and local volunteers used boats to rescue at least 15 children and an infant after floodwaters submerged residential areas following hours of rainfall that began around 3:00 a.m.

Authorities also recovered the body of a man believed to be in his 60s from the low-lying Alajo district, where several vehicles and homes were damaged by the floods. Local journalists reported that two additional people died after rising floodwaters came into contact with electrical wiring inside their residence.

The Ministry of the Interior urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel while emergency teams continued rescue and relief operations across affected communities.

Accra, which is home to more than five million people, experiences flooding during the rainy season almost every year. Residents have repeatedly blamed inadequate drainage systems, rapid urban expansion and blocked waterways for the recurring disasters.

Some residents described the devastating impact of the flooding on their homes and personal belongings. Retired journalist Philip Mensah said his house was flooded, leaving his collection of vinyl records submerged, while schoolteacher Patience Naa Adjeley Adjei said she spent hours trying to prevent water from entering her home.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Meteorological Agency warned that rain-bearing clouds are expected to persist over southeastern Ghana before spreading westward, raising concerns that additional rainfall could trigger further flooding in vulnerable communities.

Authorities have advised residents living in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and follow safety instructions as weather conditions continue to be monitored.