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The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has confirmed that at least 12 people have died following severe flooding triggered by heavy rains on Monday, June 29, while more than 150 others were rescued from various flood-affected communities across the country.
Speaking in an interview on TV3 Ghana Tonight, ADO 1 Alex King Nartey of the GNFS Public Relations Department said firefighters were deployed to multiple locations as emergency calls flooded in from affected areas.
He explained that rescue operations were carried out in several communities, including Tse Addo, Achimota, Kasoa, Nyanyanu, Taifa, Weija, Dome, Alajo, and Cape Coast.
“I will say that the total number of people we have rescued today will be in excess of over 150 people,” he stated.
The GNFS also confirmed the recovery of the body of an elderly man believed to be in his 60s at Alajo after floodwaters swept through the area. The police were called in to take custody of the body.
According to the Service, the current verified death toll stands at 12, with fatalities recorded in different parts of the country. These include a couple who died at Tema Newtown, an electrocution case at Alajo, a woman and her child at Achimota-Alogboshie, four deaths at Odawna, and another man at Achimota Abofu.
However, officials say the figures are still being verified, as there are indications that more deaths may be confirmed.
“For verifiable purposes, I am sticking to 12 until I am able to verify the numbers,” Mr. Nartey noted.
The Fire Service attributed the recurring flood disasters partly to human behaviour, stressing that poor attitudes toward the environment continue to worsen the situation despite government efforts to improve drainage systems.
“It looks like there are more but for verifiable purposes, I am sticking to 12… until I am able to verify the numbers,” he added.
The GNFS has therefore urged the public to adhere to safety advisories during heavy rains and avoid flood-prone areas to reduce the risk of further casualties and destruction.
Story by Efua Nessa