GMet warns of dangerous sea swells from Friday to Sunday; coastal residents urged to stay alert

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has issued an alert over dangerous sea conditions expected from Friday, June 27, to Sunday, June 29, warning of 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 dangerous by local safety standards. For context, wave heights between 0 and 1.4 metres are considered calm, 1.5 to 2.4 metres are deemed rough, and anything above 2.5 metres is classified as hazardous.

Speaking on Joy FM, Principal Meteorologist at GMet’s Marine Unit, Adom Derkye, emphasised the seriousness 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 in 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 towns.

“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 provides four-day marine forecasts directly via mobile phones. The real-time updates will help communities plan and respond proactively.

Mr Derkye advised residents to stay updated through GMet’s 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 the wave heights should subside.”

GMet has assured the public of continuous monitoring and timely updates as the situation evolves.

Read More