A mudslide carrying heavy rocks from the 600-metre Adaklu Mountain has buried at least five houses and nine vehicles at Adaklu-Helekpe in the Volta Region following heavy rainfall on Wednesday, May 20, 2026.
The incident occurred shortly after 6 p.m. during a downpour, sending large volumes of mud and debris into the community and causing widespread destruction at the base of the mountain.
Two individuals—a man and a woman—who were trapped beneath the rubble were rescued by local residents just before the arrival of personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service.
About 50 goats and other livestock were also reportedly killed in the disaster, leaving the community in a state of fear and displacement. Several affected residents are currently staying with relatives and neighbours.
The Volta Regional Commander of the GNFS, Assistant Chief Fire Officer (ACFO) Joseph Tetteh Freeman, confirmed that no fatalities were recorded. He indicated that the injured victims were taken to hospital for treatment.
He further ordered residents living close to the affected area to evacuate immediately and avoid the site for at least one week to allow for safety assessments.
“This is because we need to bring in geological engineers to assess the situation,” he explained.
ACFO Freeman added that the mudslide covered several acres and cautioned residents against engaging in farming activities in the area until it is declared safe.
He also commended local residents for their swift rescue efforts prior to the arrival of emergency services.
“We will continue to visit Adaklu-Helekpe until we are sure the place is safe,” he stated.
A team from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has since arrived at the scene to support response efforts and assess the extent of damage.
The area has a history of geological instability, with a previous rock-related incident in 2017 prompting widespread evacuation fears among residents.
