Floodwaters submerged parts of the Accra-Cape Coast-Takoradi Highway on Monday, May 18, 2026. This incident caused heavy traffic, particularly on the Biriwa stretch. Motorists found themselves stranded by the rising water levels. The highway is a vital link for commerce and travel in Ghana.
Residents point to sand winning activities as the primary cause of the flooding. They claim these actions have disrupted the natural flow of water in the area. The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and the Ghana Police Service deployed personnel. Their role is to direct traffic and assist those affected.
This event highlights ongoing challenges with infrastructure and environmental management in Ghana. Flooding incidents often disrupt economic activity. Past events have shown significant losses in agriculture and damage to property. Ghana's capital, Accra, frequently experiences flooding, underscoring a persistent urban planning issue. The government has previously initiated measures to improve drainage systems.
An official from NADMO stated that their teams are working to manage the situation. "We are advising drivers to exercise extreme caution," the official noted. "Patience is essential as we work to clear the road." They confirmed deployment of their Rapid Response Unit to the scene. The Ghana Police Service also confirmed their presence.
The closure and disruption of this major highway will likely impact supply chains and travel times. Businesses relying on this route may face increased operational costs. Authorities will need to monitor the long-term effects of such flooding on the road infrastructure. Further investigations into the sand winning activities are expected. This incident also coincides with reports of over 13 houses collapsing at Moree due to tidal waves.