A devastating flood has hit Kasoa in the Awutu Senya East Municipality of the Central Region, leaving one person dead and displacing more than 500 residents following a prolonged heavy downpour on Wednesday night.
The deceased, believed to be in his early thirties, tragically lost his life while attempting to cross a wooden bridge over the Okrudu River.
According to eyewitness accounts, the force of the floodwaters swept away both the bridge and the victim. His lifeless body was later recovered and deposited at the Police Hospital morgue.
Authorities are currently working to identify and contact his family.
Over 300 homes have been submerged, with personal belongings, household goods, and essential infrastructure either damaged or destroyed.
Scores of families have been rendered homeless, now seeking shelter with relatives or in temporary accommodations provided by local emergency services.
Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) Seth Banini confirmed the fatality and expressed condolences to the victim’s family.
He noted that the scale of destruction has overwhelmed many residents, particularly in low-lying communities along the Okrudu River and its tributaries.
In a statement to the press, the Municipal Director of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Nash Nyandey, blamed the severity of the flooding partly on unauthorized structures obstructing natural waterways.
He stressed that illegal construction and poor drainage systems have compounded the risks of flooding in Kasoa, an area already vulnerable due to rapid urbanisation and unregulated development.
NADMO, together with local authorities, has launched emergency relief efforts, including evacuations and the distribution of basic supplies to affected households.
However, officials warn that more rain is expected in the coming days, raising fears of additional flooding.
Background: A Recurring Threat
Kasoa has experienced repeated flooding incidents over the past decade, often triggered by poor urban planning, inadequate drainage, and encroachment on wetlands and floodplains.
Experts have long warned that without stricter enforcement of building regulations and investment in flood mitigation infrastructure, such disasters will continue to escalate.
The Awutu Senya East Municipal Assembly says it is working with stakeholders to review flood control measures and plans to demolish structures illegally built on watercourses.
Meanwhile, residents are calling on the government to expedite drainage improvement projects and provide long-term solutions to prevent future loss of lives and property.
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