Understanding the Past and Present Climate of Accra

Accra, the capital city of Ghana, is vulnerable to the potential impacts of climate change and variability. This research provides relevant up-to-date climate information, which helps understand the past to present climate of Accra. This was achieved by examining the monthly and annual rainfall totals, rainy days, seasonal cycle, yearly and monthly means of minimum and maximum temperature, and comparing the recent climatology to the former for both climate variables. The data used for the study was obtained from the Ghana Meteorological agency and spanned from 1960 to 2018. The analysis revealed that the annual rainfall total has not changed in Accra but remains variable.

While the 1960s were wetter and 1980s dryer, recent years have remained variable. Annual rainy and heavy rainy days continue to vary from year to year. The month of June was identified as the high-risk month with June 9 identified as a high-risk day of the year for related meteorological disaster. While June, the peak of the season is becoming dryer, the dry season is becoming wetter. The temperature at night and day has changed in Accra, with the night temperature increasing at a higher rate than the day temperature.

The temperature increases in Accra ranges from 0.3 ⁰C to 1.3 ⁰C with the dry season warming at a higher rate. The outcome of this research will help users of climate information, city planners, policymakers, disaster managers, energy management professionals, and the government to manage the climate risk of Accra based on scientific evidence in building a resilient and green city.