17 Oct 2023 | 12:33 PM UTC
Ghana: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing in southeastern regions as of Oct. 17
Disruptions due to flooding ongoing in parts of southeastern Ghana as of Oct. 17; evacuations ongoing.
Event
Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing in parts of southeastern Ghana as of Oct. 17. The flooding has been triggered by water released from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams into the Volta River following periods of heavy rainfall during the current rainy season. The release of excess water from the dams has been ongoing since Sept. 15 and has triggered widespread flooding along the downstream banks of the Volta River. As of Oct. 17, authorities have reported more than 8,000 people have been displaced by the flooding, primarily in Volta Region. South, Central, and North Tongu districts in Volta Region are amongst the worst affected areas. At least seven people have been injured due to the flooding. Dozens of communities have been isolated due to flooded roads and water shortages, power outages, and other disruptions to essential services have been reported in the region. Emergency response operations are ongoing in the affected areas.
The Ghana Meteorological Agency has forecast additional rainfall in the affected area over the coming days and further heavy downpours and thunderstorms are likely in the region and throughout Ghana during the rainy season, which lasts through October. The continual rainfall will likely mean dams will continue to release excess water into the Volta River.
Further sustained heavy rainfall and the associated release of water from dams could trigger additional 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. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
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.
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.
