The coastal regions of West Africa are enduring a relentless onslaught of torrential rains, causing devastating floods that have claimed numerous lives and displaced countless individuals. The rainy season which typically runs from May until July has brought unprecedented levels of precipitation, exacerbating the impact of climate breakdown and urban infrastructure challenges.
In Côte d’Ivoire the floods have been particularly deadly, with 59 people reported dead since May according to the communication minister, Amadou Coulibaly. The situation is expected to worsen as rescue teams continue their efforts during the peak of the rainy season. Footage circulating on social media shows neighborhoods submerged under water, with residents wading through flooded streets in search of safer ground.
Ghana faces severe flooding as rainfall records are shattered
Neighboring Ghana has also been severely affected, with at least 13 fatalities and over 400 people rescued, according to the Ghana Fire Service. President John Mahama reported that the downpour had been approximately 140mm of rain significantly higher than the highest single-day rainfall recorded last year, which was about 56mm.
The president highlighted the geographical and urban planning challenges facing Accra which is built between the Akwapim mountain range and the Atlantic Ocean. As the population continues to grow, the natural pathways for water to flow towards the ocean have been restricted. Additionally, the dumping of garbage in drains and the presence of illicit dumping sites in wetlands have compounded the problem.
Climate change and urban infrastructure: a deadly combination
The floods have become deadlier due to the exacerbation of extreme weather events by climate change. Despite Africa contributing only minimally to greenhouse gas emissions, the World Meteorological Organisation has identified the continent as particularly vulnerable to such events. The impact of poor waste management and rapid urban population growth on existing infrastructure has also been acknowledged as a significant factor.
In Accra and the nearby city of Tema the rains have submerged buildings and roads, cutting off access to essential services. In some areas, fires have started after electrical installations were flooded, adding to the chaos and destruction.
Nigeria and other regions brace for more flooding
The floods have also affected parts of BeninTogo and Nigeria although no confirmed casualties have been reported. In Lagos Nigeria, flooding halted operations at a transmission substation, disrupting electricity supply to several neighborhoods. The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has predicted above-normal rainfall in Abuja and nine states this year, with some of the states in the north experiencing what was described as the worst flood in 60 years last year.
Between last December and February southern and northern Africa were similarly affected by deadly floods, highlighting the increasing frequency and severity of such events. As the rainy season continues, the region braces for further challenges, with authorities and communities working to mitigate the impact and protect lives.
