The Keta Municipal Security Council has begun evacuating residents from high-risk coastal communities in response to a severe sea-tide warning issued by the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet).

GMet has forecast wave heights reaching up to 2.8 meters well above the 1.5-meter safety limit and surpassing the 2.5-meter threshold classified as hazardous for marine and coastal activities.

According to Principal Meteorologist at the Marine Unit of GMet Adom Derkye, the current conditions pose serious threats to fishing, transportation, and all coastal operations, and could result in flooding in low-lying areas like Keta.

“On Friday and Sunday, the waves will be in the dangerous zone, about 2.5 to 2.8 meters or higher. These are asthonic waves and can cause coastal inundation. With Keta’s elevation only about one meter above sea level, a 2.5-meter wave can easily flood the area,” he warned.

He urged residents to stay alert to GMet advisories, avoid fishing during this period, and keep personal property away from the shoreline.

“There is no need for fishing, and also avoid placing things onshore,” he cautioned.

The Municipal Chief Executive of Keta and Chairman of the Municipal Security Council, Wisdom  Bondieu Seade, told JoyNews that residents in high-risk areas have been advised to move to higher ground.

He added that the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and other emergency agencies are on the ground and working to prevent any potential disasters.

“We are prioritising the safety of lives and property. Our teams are monitoring the situation closely and assisting those at risk,” Mr Seade stated.

As the threat of coastal flooding intensifies, authorities are urging residents to take early precautions and heed official warnings to avoid tragedy.