08 Apr 2022 | 03:03 PM UTC
Ghana: Disruptions ongoing due to flooding in Accra as of April 8
Disruptions ongoing due to flooding in Accra, Ghana, as of April 8; further adverse likely during rainy season through late June.
Event
Heavy downpours have triggered significant flooding in parts of Accra April 8, causing disruptions to transport. Affected areas include Odawna, Sahara, and the Central Business District; the floodwaters partially submerged some houses. The downpours only lasted for a short period but were intense enough to cause flooding and were accompanied by thunderstorms. Weather conditions are forecast to improve in the coming days; however, further heavy downpours and thunderstorms are likely in Accra and throughout Ghana during the rainy season, which lasts through late June.
Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities during periods of intense rainfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
