At CJ Schools, our core strength has always been our unity. Following the recent torrential rains that have deeply inundated our capital city of Accra, many families and communities are facing immense hardship. We extend our heartfelt thoughts and unwavering support to everyone impacted by this crisis.
A City Submerged
In late June, unprecedented weather patterns struck our shores, triggering severe flooding across several low-lying neighborhoods. Tragic reports confirm that at least 13 individuals have lost their lives, while countless homes, businesses, and vehicles have been swallowed by the water. Emergency responders, including the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), the military, and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), have mobilized in full force. Thus far, the GNFS alone has successfully rescued over 470 people stranded by the rapidly rising tides.
The scale of the deluge was extraordinary. Authorities revealed that roughly 140mm of rain descended on the capital—a stark increase compared to last year's highest single-day record of just 56mm. This heavy rainfall underscores the escalating threat of climate change on our environment. Beyond natural forces, man-made infrastructural challenges—such as choked drainage systems and illegal construction on waterways—have significantly worsened the flooding.
The human stories emerging from this disaster are profound. Philip Mensah, a local resident, shared the personal devastation of his home being flooded, noting that his "1970s collection of vinyl records is now underwater." Similarly, Patience Naa Adjeley Adjei, a schoolteacher, recounted her futile attempts to protect her home: "I have mopped my room more than eight times. I can't even step out because my room is flooded, and outside is flooded."
— Ewurabena Yanyi-Akofur, WaterAid Ghana Director
Because the flooding breached multiple substations, utility providers GRIDCo and ECG were forced to temporarily cut power to affected areas. This was a necessary precaution to protect emergency rescue personnel and prevent catastrophic equipment failures.
Official Flood Safety Directives
The safety of our students, parents, and community is our absolute priority. The Presidency and the Ghana Meteorological Agency have issued urgent public safety advisories for all residents:
- Stay Indoors: The president's office urged, "Stay indoors if you are in a safe location." If your home is being inundated, move immediately to higher ground.
- Never Cross Floodwaters: "Do not attempt to cross flooded roads, whether on foot or in a vehicle." Floodwaters can rise rapidly and pose significant danger.
- Beware of Hazards: Avoid sheltering under trees, stay clear of loose electrical wires, and unplug electrical appliances.
- Emergency Contact: If you need immediate assistance, call the national emergency toll-free line at 112.
Moving Forward Together
The government is currently taking action to mitigate future risks, including ordering the demolition of illegal structures obstructing key waterways after an aerial tour of the city. But immediate recovery is an effort that requires all of us.
To our extended CJ Schools family and the resilient people of Ghana: we stand with you. May we continue to look out for one another, share these vital safety tips, and offer a helping hand where it is needed most to build a safer, more caring society.
Together, we stand. Together, we recover. Together, we rise.