A geospatial perspective of flood risk hotspots, transport networks and emergency response services in Accra, Ghana

Richard Yao Kofie, Albert Nii Moe Allotey, Lasse Møller-Jensen, Gerald Albert Baeribameng Yiran

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This paper adds to existing knowledge about flood management in Accra and contributes insights into emergency responses to major flood events in a geospatial context. The study identifies and analyses the specific routes from the facilities of emergency responders to designated flood-prone areas within four sites in the peripheral areas of the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area. Flood hotspots were ascertained from several sources including local knowledge and bluespot maps derived from a 10 m resolution elevation model. GIS-based network analysis was used to determine the fastest routes from emergency responder facilities to flood hotspots, based on OpenStreetMap data. Interviews revealed that the computed routes are unsuitable for emergency services due to narrow passages and prevailing conditions during the floods. It is necessary to incorporate the individual responder’s knowledge gained through familiarization with the local terrain to identify the optimal routes. The study further analysed the accessibility of emergency response services using indicative service area maps that present an account of time-distance from various emergency responders’ bases. Finally, the study recommends the need for better planning of the expanding areas of the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area, in terms of accessibility for emergency responders.

Original languageEnglish
JournalGeografisk Tidsskrift
DOIs
Publication statusAccepted/In press - 2024

Keywords

  • emergency response
  • Flood hotspots
  • geospatial, transport networks

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