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An official website of the National Disaster Management Organisation

Historical Occurrence in Ghana

  • 2023: Akosombo and Kpong Dam spillages displaced over 30,000 people in the Volta, Eastern, and Greater Accra regions.

  • 2018 & 2019: Bagre Dam spillage caused recurring flooding in Upper East, Upper West, and Northern Regions.

  • 2015: June 3 Accra flood and fuel station fire disaster claimed over 150 lives.

  • 2007: Widespread floods affected 3 northern regions, displacing over 300,000 people.

  • 1995: Severe flooding in Northern Ghana displaced over 50,000 people.

Geographical Distribution

Floods are widespread across Ghana but high-risk areas include:

  • Northern Ghana (Upper East, Upper West, Northern Region): Prone to riverine flooding due to Bagre Dam spillage and torrential rains.

  • Southern Ghana (Greater Accra, Central, Volta): Urban floods caused by heavy rainfall, poor drainage, and coastal influences.

  • Volta Region (Mepe, Battor, Sogakope, Ada): Vulnerable to dam spillage and river overflow.

Impacts

  • Human: Loss of lives, injuries, displacement of populations.

  • Livelihoods: Destruction of farms, livestock, and small businesses.

  • Infrastructure: Damage to homes, roads, schools, health facilities, and electricity systems.

  • Environment: Soil erosion, contamination of water sources, and destruction of ecosystems.

Key Contributing Factors

  • Heavy rainfall and climate variability.

  • Release/spillage from major dams.

  • Poor urban planning and blocked drainage systems.

  • Settlements in flood-prone and low-lying areas.

  • Deforestation and land degradation.

Disaster Management & Response

  • Preparedness: Seasonal flood early warning systems (NADMO, GMet, WRC).

  • Response: Emergency evacuations, relief distribution (shelter, food, medical aid).

  • Recovery: Rehabilitation of affected communities, support for livelihoods, infrastructure repairs.

  • Mitigation: Dredging of drains, construction of flood defense structures, community sensitization, enforcement of building regulations.

Current Situation & Trends

Flood frequency and intensity are increasing due to climate change, urbanization, and land-use changes. Projections indicate heightened risks, especially in urban areas like Accra and along the Volta River basin.

Public Safety Guidance

  • Avoid building in flood-prone zones.

  • Stay informed via NADMO/GMet alerts during the rainy season.

  • Move to higher ground when warnings are issued.

  • Keep emergency kits ready (documents, food, water, medicines).