Omanghana
Heavy rainfall in the Twifo Atti-Morkwa District of Ghana’s Central Region has led to two separate drowning incidents, leaving one person confirmed dead and another still missing. The incidents follow days of torrential downpours that have caused rivers in the area to overflow, creating dangerous flooding conditions across multiple communities.
The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), working alongside the Ghana Police Service and local emergency responders, has launched coordinated search and recovery operations as residents grapple with the aftermath of the disaster.
Flooding Pushes River Levels to Dangerous Heights
The recent weather conditions have triggered widespread flooding in parts of the district, with local river systems swelling beyond their normal capacity.
Authorities say the rising water levels significantly increased the risk of drowning, particularly in areas where residents continue to rely on rivers for daily activities such as bathing and transport.
Emergency teams have been deployed to affected communities to monitor river conditions and assist in search efforts.
Body Recovered in Morkwa After Three-Day Search
In the Morkwa community, a 45-year-old man was reported missing after being caught in sudden flash flooding that swept through the area.
According to NADMO officials, the victim disappeared during intense rainfall that rapidly raised water levels in nearby streams and drainage channels.
After a coordinated three-day search involving rescue teams and local volunteers, the man’s body was recovered from the Pra River on Monday, June 8, 2026.
Authorities confirmed the recovery and conveyed condolences to the bereaved family as investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident continue.
Search Ongoing for Missing Student in Twifo Edugyaa
In a separate incident in Twifo Edugyaa, a search operation is ongoing for Alfred Kumi, a Junior High School graduate who went missing on the same day.
Reports indicate that Kumi was visiting his father when he went to bathe in the Osen River. He was reportedly swept away or lost contact shortly afterward, prompting alarm among family members and community residents.
Search teams made up of NADMO personnel, police officers, and local divers have been combing the river and surrounding areas, but the victim has not yet been found.
Authorities say operations will continue until all possible locations have been thoroughly searched.
NADMO Raises Safety Concerns Over River Activities
The District NADMO Director, James Pra, has issued a strong warning to residents to exercise extreme caution during the ongoing rainy season.
He cautioned against unsafe activities near riverbanks, particularly illegal sand winning, which he said has worsened erosion and increased the danger posed by fast-moving water.
Officials say such practices weaken riverbanks and contribute to sudden collapses and unpredictable water currents, especially during heavy rainfall.
Call for Better Rescue Infrastructure
Beyond immediate safety warnings, NADMO has also highlighted critical gaps in emergency response capacity within the district.
James Pra appealed for urgent support to improve disaster preparedness, including the provision of life jackets, rescue boats, and other essential water rescue equipment.
He noted that limited resources continue to hamper response efforts during flooding emergencies, making timely rescues more difficult.
Community on Alert as Rainy Season Continues
Residents across Twifo Atti-Morkwa remain on high alert as forecasts suggest continued rainfall in the coming days.
Local authorities are urging the public to avoid crossing swollen rivers, limit movement during heavy rains, and report any emergency situations immediately.
As search efforts continue for the missing student, the district is once again confronting the recurring challenges posed by seasonal flooding and limited disaster infrastructure in vulnerable riverine communities.
Source: Omanghana
