ACCRA, Ghana — Heavy downpours over the past 48 hours have triggered severe flooding in several parts of Accra, resulting in the loss of lives, extensive property damage, and the displacement of hundreds of residents, emergency officials confirmed on Saturday, April 4, 2026.
The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) said the hardest-hit areas include Kaneshie, Odawna, Weija, Kasoa Junction, Adabraka, and parts of Tema. The Odaw River and its tributaries overflowed their banks after hours of continuous rain, submerging streets, shops, and residential compounds.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts NADMO officials report that at least 8 people have died, including 3 children who were swept away by floodwaters in the Odawna area. Rescue teams, supported by the Ghana National Fire Service and the Ghana Armed Forces, have been evacuating trapped residents using boats and high-clearance vehicles.
“Many families were caught off guard overnight when the water rose very fast,” said a NADMO spokesperson. “We are prioritizing search and rescue, and shelters have been opened at local schools and community centers for those displaced.”
Damage to Property and Infrastructure The floods have caused significant destruction across the capital: • Homes & Markets: Hundreds of homes in low-lying areas were submerged. Traders at Kaneshie Market and Makola lost goods worth thousands of cedis after floodwater entered stalls and storage rooms. • Roads & Transport: Major routes including the Graphic Road, Graphic to Circle stretch, and Kasoa-Winneba Road were rendered impassable, causing hours-long traffic gridlock and disrupting public transport. • Utilities: The Electricity Company of Ghana cut power to several flooded communities as a safety measure, while the Ghana Water Company reported pipe bursts in Weija and Dansoman.
Government and Community Response The Greater Accra Regional Minister visited affected areas on Saturday morning and assured residents of relief support. “We are working with NADMO, MMDAs, and humanitarian partners to provide food, clean water, mosquito nets, and medical care to victims,” he said.
Volunteer groups and churches have also mobilized to distribute cooked meals, clothing, and emergency supplies at the temporary shelters.
Cause and Warning Meteorologists attribute the flooding to an intense rain system that dumped above-average rainfall in a short period, overwhelming Accra’s drainage infrastructure. NADMO has urged residents living along waterways and in flood-prone zones to move to higher ground and avoid crossing flooded roads or footbridges.
The Ghana Meteorological Agency has warned that more rains are expected over the next 24 hours and advised the public to remain alert.
Authorities say damage assessment teams are on the ground, and a full account of the losses will be released once waters recede.
