A man has reportedly died after being electrocuted inside his flooded room at Alajo in Accra during the heavy rains that swept across the capital, adding to the growing death toll linked to the recent flooding.
According to preliminary reports, the victim was attempting to switch off electrical sockets after floodwaters entered his room when he came into contact with a live electrical source. Authorities are yet to officially confirm the exact circumstances surrounding the incident, and investigations are expected to determine what happened.
The incident has renewed warnings about the dangers of electricity in flood-prone areas, particularly during periods of intense rainfall.
The fatal electrocution reportedly occurred as floodwaters inundated parts of Alajo following hours of heavy rain. Witness accounts cited by local media suggest the victim was trying to prevent damage to electrical appliances, including a television, after water entered his room. He is said to have suffered an electric shock while attempting to switch off the power supply and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Officials have not yet released the victim’s identity.
While the incident has been widely reported, authorities have not issued a detailed account of the circumstances leading to the death. Investigators are expected to establish whether exposed electrical wiring, damaged installations or other safety hazards contributed to the fatal electrocution.
Emergency responders have continued assessments in flood-hit communities as part of broader recovery efforts across Greater Accra.
The latest incident comes after torrential rains caused widespread flooding in several parts of Accra, including Alajo, Adabraka, Kaneshie, Weija and other low-lying communities. Floodwaters submerged roads, trapped residents, disrupted businesses and damaged homes, forcing emergency services to carry out rescue operations in multiple locations. The flooding also caused significant traffic congestion as motorists struggled to navigate inundated roads.
Safety Agencies Urge Public to Exercise Caution
Emergency management agencies have repeatedly advised residents to avoid entering floodwaters where electrical installations may be submerged.
Authorities warn that hidden electrical hazards pose a serious risk during floods and have encouraged the public to switch off electricity at the main source whenever it is safe to do so.
Residents have also been urged to stay away from fallen power lines, damaged electrical equipment and flooded buildings until they have been declared safe.
The latest tragedy has once again highlighted the risks associated with urban flooding in Accra, particularly in densely populated communities vulnerable to heavy rainfall.Experts have consistently linked recurring floods to blocked drainage systems, rapid urban development and construction along waterways.
As investigations into the reported electrocution continue, disaster management agencies are encouraging residents to remain alert and follow official safety advice throughout the rainy season.
