At least 13 people have died in Ghana’s capital, Accra, following intense rain which resulted in severe flooding.

Videos circulating online showed residents stranded on rooftops and perched on fences as floodwaters swept through neighbourhoods.

Ghana’s president, John Mahama, on Monday, said preliminary information showed that approximately 140 millimetres of rain fell on Accra. 

“The amount of rainfall recorded today is among the highest experienced in several years. Preliminary data indicates that approximately 140 millimetres of rain fell on Accra. By comparison, the highest single-day rainfall recorded last year was about 56 millimetres,” Mr Mahama said in an update shared on X.

Though the president blamed changing climate conditions as part of the mishap, Mr Mahama insisted irresponsible actions of few individuals could not be exonerated.

He added, “That aspect of the problem is beyond our control because it is driven by changing climatic conditions. There is the issue of human behaviour.

“Whenever government begins removing structures built in waterways, some people accuse us of being inhumane. Yet when disasters such as today’s flooding occur, the consequences affect everyone. The irresponsible actions of a few individuals end up putting entire communities at risk.”

The latest flooding ravaged roads, businesses and roads, with individuals recording losses.

Heavy torrential rainfall continues to wreak havoc on several African communities despite the continent contributing the least to the global greenhouse gas emissions.

Amid increasingly frequent and intense extreme weather events, experts suggested adaptation finance to help African countries strengthen drainage systems, climate-proof infrastructure, improve early warning systems and build resilience among vulnerable communities.