May 18 flood: NADMO confirms five deaths in Accra

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has confirmed that five people lost their lives following the devastating floods that struck parts of the Greater Accra Region on Sunday, May 18, 2025.

According to NADMO, the fatalities occurred in two municipalities — three in Ga East and two in Adenta — after heavy rains triggered widespread flooding that left several communities submerged.

Richard Amo Yartey, NADMO’s Director of Inspectorate, disclosed the tragic development, speaking on Channel One TV confirmed the cases.

He attributed the incident to poorly maintained drainage systems and unregulated urban expansion.

Mr. Yartey said, “Our records indicate that five lives were lost, three in the Ga East Municipality and two in the Adenta Municipality. It is so unfortunate, and it also tells us that we need to intensify our education. I will advise citizens to pay attention to weather warnings. It is in our interest to stay informed about potential risks.”

Despite the Ghana Meteorological Agency reporting only 25 millimetres of rainfall, the flooding was severe due to prior downpours and runoff from higher elevations.

NADMO described the flooding as “unprecedented,” calling it the worst such disaster to hit parts of Accra in the last five years.

The rain, which began around 3:00 p.m. and lasted nearly three hours, brought major parts of the city to a standstill.

Affected areas included Weija, Kaneshie, Adabraka, Adenta-Dodowa, Tema, and other neighborhoods. Roads became impassable, homes were inundated, and many residents were left stranded.