ACCRA — Torrential rain in Accra has resulted in severe flooding and at least 13 fatalities, according to the Ghana National Fire Service. Emergency crews have rescued more than 470 people from the floodwaters.

One man drowned in the Alajo district, and two people were electrocuted when floodwaters came into contact with electrical wiring inside their home. Emergency crews rescued at least 15 children and an infant. Preliminary data indicated that around 140mm of rain fell on Accra.

President Mahama ordered the demolition of all illegal structures on waterways after conducting an aerial tour of the city on Monday. He stated, "The irresponsible actions of a few individuals end up putting entire communities at risk." The government advised residents to remain indoors or relocate to higher ground.

The president's office issued a statement advising, "Stay indoors if you are in a safe location. Do not attempt to cross flooded roads, whether on foot or in a vehicle. If your home is being inundated, move immediately to higher ground and call 112 for emergency assistance." The Ghana Meteorological Agency warned that additional rain was expected to impact parts of southern Ghana into Tuesday afternoon, with a big storm approaching from the east.

The Ghana Meteorological Agency advised individuals to "Avoid sheltering under trees, stay clear of loose electrical wires, and do not walk or drive through floodwaters." Emergency response teams from the police, fire service, the military, and the National Disaster Management Organisation have been deployed to the affected region. The interior ministry stated that emergency teams were deployed to monitor the situation and to safeguard lives and property.

The floods caused a fire at a rubber factory in Accra. The Ghana Grid Company Limited and the Electricity Company of Ghana temporarily shut down power supply to certain areas of Accra affected by the floods. In a joint statement, the companies said this shutdown was "necessary" because the flooding impacted power infrastructure at multiple substations, "posing significant risks to both electrical equipment and operational personnel."

Ewurabena Yanyi-Akofur, director of WaterAid Ghana, called for "stronger urban planning and preparedness measures, to safeguard communities before, during and after extreme weather events." Yanyi-Akofur added, "What we are witnessing in Accra is not an isolated weather event, but part of a pattern intensified by climate change and rapid, unplanned urbanisation."