The Ghana Meteorological Agency has warned that many parts of Ghana, including Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi and Cape Coast, could experience thunderstorms and rainfall throughout the weekend, with Saturday expected to be the most unstable weather day.
According to GMet’s latest forecast released on the afternoon of Friday, much of the country will experience a mix of sunshine, cloudy conditions and thunderstorms between Friday night and Sunday, while some areas face an increased risk of heavy rainfall and temporary flooding.
The advisory is particularly important for commuters, motorists, event organisers, farmers and residents in flood-prone communities as changing weather conditions could disrupt outdoor activities and travel plans.
Thunderstorms Expected Across Southern Ghana
Friday night, according to the forecast, was expected to begin with cloudy and humid conditions across many parts of the country, with scattered rain and thunderstorms likely in coastal and middle belt areas.
Places including Accra, Cape Coast, Takoradi and sections of the forest belt were expected to experience increased rainfall activity overnight into Saturday morning.
GMet says Saturday may begin with mist or fog patches in parts of southern Ghana before sunny intervals emerge later in the day. However, thunderstorms and rain are expected to develop afterwards, especially during the afternoon and evening hours.
The forecast suggests residents should prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions throughout the day.
Northern Ghana To Remain Hot With Isolated Storms
While southern Ghana is expected to record more widespread rainfall, northern parts of the country are forecast to remain mostly sunny and hot for much of the weekend.
However, isolated thunderstorms could still develop later in the day across some northern communities.
Sunday’s weather is expected to be slightly calmer in several areas, although scattered thunderstorms and rain remain likely across parts of the country.
What GMet’s Weather Risk Colours Mean
The colours and letters displayed on GMet’s forecast maps indicate both the likelihood and possible impact of severe weather conditions.
Green indicates a low-risk situation where only minor disruptions are expected.
Yellow signals a “be aware” situation, meaning weather conditions could become disruptive in some areas.
For this weekend, GMet’s main message is for residents to remain alert and prepared, especially in areas prone to flooding or poor visibility during storms.
Areas Likely To Experience Heavier Rainfall
Based on the forecast maps, stronger thunderstorm activity is more likely in:
- Greater Accra Region
- Volta Region
- Ashanti Region
- Western Region
- Parts of the middle belt and transition zones
Communities in low-lying and flood-prone areas may need to take extra precautions if rainfall intensifies.
Advice For Residents Travelling Or Planning Outdoor Activities
Residents travelling this weekend or organising outdoor events will do themselves a lot of good by preparing for sudden rainfall and possible disruptions.
Motorists are encouraged to drive cautiously during storms as visibility may be reduced significantly during heavy rain.
Residents in the affected areas are also advised to:
- carry umbrellas or raincoats
- avoid flooded roads and drains
- monitor weather updates regularly
- take precautions during lightning and strong winds
For commuters and transport operators, delays could occur during periods of intense rainfall, especially on Saturday.
If parts of Accra experience more rainfall as the weekend forecast suggests, it might worsen the flooding situation in the national capital. Already, some communities such as Adabraka, Odawna, Weija, Kaneshie, the Adentan-Dodowa enclave, Oyarifa, parts of Tema, Circle, Mallam Junction, Dansoman, Kasoa Old Barrier and Accra Central have reported flooding incidents in recent days.
For many commuters and residents, the rains have caused traffic congestion, delayed movement and concerns about damage to homes and property.
Areas around major drains and low-lying communities remain particularly vulnerable whenever prolonged rainfall occurs in the capital.
