The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has evacuated over 479 people and recorded 5 deaths while responding to fires, floods and structural emergencies in Accra, Tema and surrounding areas from Sunday, June 28 to Tuesday, June 30, 2026.
In an update, the Service said firefighters remained on high alert throughout the 3-day period as torrential rains triggered widespread flooding.
GNFS contained two Accra fires on Sunday, June 28 without casualties. At Lartebiokorshie, Industrial Area Fire Station responded at 8:31 a.m. to a domestic fire. One room and its contents were destroyed, while a room and hall were salvaged.
Later at Labadi Kojo Sardine, Trade Fair Fire Station contained a commercial fire by 1:17 p.m. A metal container and its contents were partially damaged. Preliminary findings point to an overcharged solar panel battery.
At Asutuare Junction, four fire tenders battled a burning fuel tanker. The fire was extinguished by 6:30 a.m. The tanker was destroyed, one person was injured and conveyed to hospital, and one fatality was recorded. The cause is under investigation.
Following heavy rains on Monday, June 29, GNFS led joint operations. At Tse-Ado Last Stop, Accra, a team with Police Marine, NADMO and the Ghana Army rescued 105 people, including 40 women, 20 men and 45 children.
In the Tema Region, firefighters responded to 23 incidents in 24 hours: 6 fires, 8 floods, and 7 fallen-tree cases. Twelve persons were saved from floodwaters, and over 50 residents assisted at Tema Newtown. One female trader was reported missing near Tema Community 1 Market after being swept away.
At Tabora No. 6, a four-storey building collapsed after all 12 occupants evacuated safely. No injuries were recorded.
By 2:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 30, GNFS had completed extensive rescues in the Adabraka–Odawna corridor, pulling over 300 people from floodwaters. Four persons, three males and one female, lost their lives.
Firefighters also extinguished a major fire at Odawna Rubber Market near Nkrumah Circle. Several structures were damaged but adjoining properties were protected. No casualties were recorded. A fire appliance remains on standby for re-ignition.
GNFS put total persons rescued or safely evacuated at over 479. Flood-related deaths: 4. Fire-related death: 1. Total deaths: 5. Injured: 1. Building collapse survivors: 12. Missing: 1.
The Service commended its personnel and partner agencies for their “dedication, professionalism, and resilience” and said investigations into the fire incidents are ongoing.
