Resilient coasts: A holistic approach to flood risk assessment and mitigation on the East Coast of Ghana

This study presents a comprehensive flood risk mapping analysis of the East Coast of Ghana, a region increasingly threatened by climate change-induced sea level rise. Employing advanced geospatial techniques, including the bathtub model and weighted overlay analysis, this research systematically evaluates the susceptibility of various coastal communities to flooding under three distinct sea level rise scenarios: 2 m, 4 m, and 6 m. The findings reveal alarming statistics: a 2-meter rise would inundate approximately 31.13% of the study area, translating to 841.14 square kilometers; a 4-meter rise would escalate this figure to 42.87% (1,158.29 square kilometers); while a 6-meter rise could flood nearly 49.68% (1,342.25 square kilometers) of the total area analyzed. In terms of flood risk categorization, around 38% of the East Coast is classified as high risk, with significant communities such as Keta and Prampram identified as particularly vulnerable. The study further identifies potential evacuation centers, highlighting facilities such as schools and community buildings situated within lower-risk zones. This research underscores the critical need for proactive flood risk management strategies, particularly as urban development continues to encroach upon vulnerable coastal ecosystems. By integrating socio-economic factors with environmental data, this study not only fills existing literature gaps but also equips local authorities and policymakers with vital information necessary for effective disaster preparedness and mitigation. Ultimately, this research advocates for the implementation of sustainable flood management practices, such as the restoration and preservation of mangrove ecosystems, which play a pivotal role in coastal protection. The findings contribute to a growing body of literature on climate adaptation strategies in West Africa, emphasizing the urgency of addressing flood risks in the face of escalating climate challenges.