Heavy morning thunderstorms and rain are expected to persist across parts of northern and transition zone Ghana on Monday, July 13, while some coastal and middle sector communities are also likely to experience localised rainfall, according to the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMET).
The agency’s latest 18-hour weather forecast, valid from 6:00 a.m., indicates that mist and fog patches will also affect forested and mountainous areas during the early hours, reducing visibility for motorists and commuters.
GMET forecasts that the northern and transition belts will bear the brunt of the morning storms, with moderate weather impacts expected over parts of the Upper West, Bono East and Savannah areas. Localised rain is also expected in sections of the coast and middle belt, including Greater Accra and parts of the Eastern Region.
As the day progresses, sunshine is expected to dominate across much of the country. However, the weather is forecast to remain unstable, with isolated thunderstorms and rain likely to redevelop later in the afternoon and evening over parts of the middle, transition and northern sectors.
Across the southern coast, Accra, Kasoa, Aflao and Anloga are expected to record morning rainfall with temperatures hovering around 25°C before rising to between 30°C and 31°C during the afternoon. Cape Coast, Takoradi and Axim are likely to experience mist early in the day before intermittent rainfall develops later.
In the Ashanti, Bono and Eastern regions, Kumasi is forecast to experience morning thunderstorms, while Obuasi, Tarkwa, Koforidua and Akim Oda are expected to begin the day under misty conditions. Afternoon sunshine is expected in several of these areas before isolated thunderstorms return later.
Northern Ghana is forecast to remain the hottest part of the country, with maximum temperatures reaching between 35°C and 36°C in Bolgatanga, Nalerigu, Wa and Jirapa despite the morning thunderstorms.
GMET has also warned that sea conditions will remain rough, advising fishers, coastal residents and operators of small vessels to exercise caution.
The forecast places parts of the northern and transition belts under moderate weather risk during the morning and evening periods, while most southern areas are expected to experience lower weather-related impacts.
Motorists have been advised to drive carefully in areas affected by fog or heavy rain, particularly in forested and hilly locations where visibility may be significantly reduced during the morning commute.
