At least 13 people have died in Accra, Ghana, after torrential rain triggered catastrophic flooding across the capital.
The Ghana National Fire Service confirmed the death toll, warning the number could rise as recovery operations continue. Emergency teams have rescued more than 470 residents so far.
Much of the water has receded, but low-lying areas remain devastated. Homes and vehicles were submerged, and a major fire broke out at a rubber factory triggered by the floods.
President John Dramani Mahama stated preliminary data showed approximately 140mm of rain fell on the capital-nearly triple the highest single-day rainfall recorded last year. He pointed to climate change as a key factor.
Emergency services, including the military and National Disaster Management Organisation, have been deployed to safeguard lives and property. The government urged residents to avoid flooded areas and move to higher ground.
Power supply to affected districts has been temporarily shut down as a precaution due to compromised electrical infrastructure.
Flooding in Accra is worsened by a failing drainage system and illegal construction on waterways. Following an aerial tour, President Mahama ordered the demolition of all such structures.
In 2015, a similar flood triggered a fuel station explosion, killing 150 people. WaterAid Ghana called for stronger urban planning to mitigate future disasters.