The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has issued an alert warning of dangerous sea conditions expected from Friday, June 27, to Sunday, June 29, with significant surges in wave activity along Ghana’s coastline.
The agency forecasts wave heights peaking at 2.8 metres — well above the 2.5-metre threshold considered hazardous by local safety standards. For reference, wave heights between 0 and 1.4 metres are considered calm, 1.5 to 2.4 metres are rough, and anything above 2.5 metres is deemed dangerous.
Speaking on Joy FM, Principal Meteorologist at GMet’s Marine Unit, Adom Derkye, emphasised the severity of the warning.
“Very high waves are coming on these days — Friday [June 27] and Sunday [June 29],” he said. “On those days, waves will fall into the dangerous zone — about 2.5 to 2.8 metres, or possibly higher.”
Mr Derkye noted that the anticipated conditions could disrupt fishing activities, affect coastal transportation, and pose significant risks to life and property, particularly in low-lying coastal areas.
“Keta is particularly at risk due to its low elevation — about one metre above sea level. A wave height exceeding that could lead to coastal inundation,” he cautioned.
To support fisherfolk and coastal dwellers, GMet has activated its USSD alert system, which delivers four-day marine forecasts directly to mobile phones. The real-time updates are designed to help communities plan and respond effectively.
Mr Derkye advised residents to stay informed through GMet’s official channels and urged those living very close to the shore to consider temporarily moving further inland.
“Our advice is for people in these vulnerable communities to follow GMet updates closely and avoid going out to sea,” he said. “The surge is expected to last around 12 hours — from midnight to midday — after which wave heights should subside.”
GMet assured the public of continuous monitoring and timely updates as the situation evolves.
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