News News from Ghana

The latest news news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

Concerns Over Ghana’s Road Infrastructure and Public Safety Heighten Following Tema Motorway Cracks and Nkawkaw Tanker Accident
news|

Concerns Over Ghana’s Road Infrastructure and Public Safety Heighten Following Tema Motorway Cracks and Nkawkaw Tanker Accident

Ghana’s transportation network and public safety protocols are under renewed scrutiny following a series of infrastructure failures and hazardous road incidents. Motorists and commuters are expressing significant alarm over the structural integrity of major transit points, most notably at the recently upgraded Tema Motorway Interchange. This anxiety is compounded by a dangerous gas tanker accident in the Eastern Region and ongoing challenges with road maintenance that have historically paralyzed key arterial routes connecting Kasoa and Accra. These events have sparked a broader conversation about the durability of the nation's road investments and the necessity for accurate public information regarding transport policies. On June 11, 2026, visible cracks were reported on the asphalt surface of the Tema Motorway Interchange, specifically along the Afienya-Akosombo stretch. The observation has raised serious doubts among motorists about the quality of the construction, as the interchange is a vital link between Tema, Accra, and other major hubs. Despite a second phase of the project being completed as recently as December 2024, the emerging fissures suggest a rapid deterioration under increasing traffic volumes. Users are now urgently calling on the Ministry of Roads and Highways to investigate the cause of these cracks and implement corrective measures to protect the significant capital investment and ensure commuter safety. Simultaneously, a high-risk traffic accident occurred at Nkawkaw Apesika involving a gas tanker, which resulted in injuries to two individuals. The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) was forced to act quickly, dispatching a team from the Mpraeso Fire Station to secure the scene against potential fire or gas leaks. Led by ADO I Effah, the emergency responders successfully rescued the victims and transported them to the Nkawkaw Roman Hospital. This incident underscores the persistent dangers on Ghana's highways, where the combination of heavy-duty vehicle traffic and road conditions often leads to life-threatening situations requiring rapid specialized intervention. In addition to physical infrastructure challenges, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) recently faced a wave of public confusion following a misleading report from Classfmonline. The media outlet has since issued an unreserved apology for erroneously suggesting that mandatory vehicle emission testing had been introduced. This misinformation added unnecessary stress to a public already weary of transport-related hurdles, such as the recurring gridlocks on the Kasoa-Accra road. Historical precedents, including severe traffic chaos caused by silt blockages and stuck trucks near Tuba Junction, highlight the long-standing nature of these transit difficulties. Together, these developments emphasize the urgent need for robust infrastructure maintenance, transparent policy communication, and enhanced emergency response systems to ensure the stability of Ghana's transport sector.

Ghana Meteorological Agency Warns of Severe Rainstorms as Flooding Prompts Heroic Rescues and Urgent Desilting Operations
news|

Ghana Meteorological Agency Warns of Severe Rainstorms as Flooding Prompts Heroic Rescues and Urgent Desilting Operations

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has issued a nationwide alert regarding an approaching rainstorm system expected to bring widespread thunderstorms, gusty winds, and variable rainfall across the country. According to forecasters, the system will move across various regions, with southern Ghana and coastal towns like Takoradi and Axim facing a high probability of morning thunderstorms and reduced visibility due to fog. The weather agency has warned that the intensity of these storms could lead to localized flooding in low-lying areas and potential damage to weak structures. In addition to land-based concerns, GMet advised fishermen to exercise extreme caution as the state of the sea is expected to remain rough during this period. The human cost of the current weather pattern was recently highlighted in the Ga South Municipality, where 35-year-old commercial motor rider Adamu Amadu narrowly escaped death in the Ngleshie Amanfro-Nsuoano area. Amadu, who was attempting to rescue a friend from fast-moving floodwaters, was nearly swept away himself before managing to cling to a tree. He was eventually rescued by a bystander, Robert Segborfia, and has since advised the public against attempting water rescues without proper training or swimming ability. Residents in the affected community pointed to poor drainage systems as a primary factor exacerbating the dangerous flood conditions. In response to the escalating flood risks, Zoomlion Ghana Limited and Dredge Masters Limited have launched a three-day intensive clean-up and desilting operation within the Greater Accra Region. The initiative targets critical flood-prone zones, including Weija and Mepeasem, where storm drains have lost significant capacity due to heavy siltation and solid waste accumulation. Sena Adiepena, Operations Manager for Dredge Masters, emphasized that encroachment on buffer zones has further hindered maintenance efforts by blocking access for heavy equipment. The private sector partners are calling for better waste management practices and stricter enforcement of building regulations to prevent future disasters. As the rainstorm system continues to develop, emergency management agencies remain on high alert. Citizens are encouraged to monitor weather updates closely and report any emergencies immediately. The combined efforts of meteorological tracking, community vigilance, and infrastructure maintenance highlight the multi-faceted approach required to manage Ghana's perennial flooding challenges during the peak of the rainy season.

Amasaman Circuit Court Jails 22-Year-Old Sales Boy for 36 Months Over GH¢217,000 Theft
news|

Amasaman Circuit Court Jails 22-Year-Old Sales Boy for 36 Months Over GH¢217,000 Theft

The Amasaman Circuit Court has sentenced Kwame Atta, a 22-year-old sales boy, to 36 months of imprisonment with hard labor for stealing GH¢217,000 from his employer, Madam Sahada. The verdict follows a trial where the prosecution successfully demonstrated that Atta had misappropriated the significant sum while in the service of the complainant. Despite the defendant’s youth and status as a first-time offender, the court found the evidence against him compelling enough to warrant a custodial sentence for the serious breach of trust. Central to the prosecution’s case was surveillance evidence that directly contradicted the defendant's initial denials. CCTV cameras captured Atta in the act of stealing, which proved instrumental in securing a conviction. While the total missing amount reached GH¢217,000, Atta only admitted to taking GH¢1,500 during the proceedings. He claimed he intended to use that smaller amount to purchase a mobile phone, though the court noted that he never actually made the purchase. This discrepancy between the admitted theft and the documented loss did not prevent the court from finding him culpable for the full amount based on the evidence provided. During the sentencing phase, a court-appointed lawyer advocated for leniency, requesting a non-custodial sentence for the young man. The defense argued that Atta’s age and his inexperience in legal matters should be considered, suggesting that a more rehabilitative approach might be better suited for a first-time offender. However, the court balanced these mitigating factors against the gravity of the financial crime and the impact on the employer's business, ultimately deciding that a three-year term of hard labor was an appropriate deterrent. In addition to the criminal sentence, the presiding judge provided guidance to Madam Sahada on how to recover her lost funds. The court advised the complainant to pursue a civil action for restitution against Atta once he has completed his prison sentence. This case highlights the increasing role of digital surveillance in securing convictions for workplace theft in Ghana and raises ongoing questions within the legal system regarding the balance between punishing significant financial crimes and the rehabilitation of young offenders.

Police Interrogate Staff Following Disappearance of Newborn at Salaga Municipal Hospital
news|

Police Interrogate Staff Following Disappearance of Newborn at Salaga Municipal Hospital

Police and health authorities have launched a full-scale investigation into the mysterious disappearance of a newborn baby at the Salaga Municipal Hospital in the East Gonja Municipality. The incident, which has shocked both the local community and hospital management, has led to the immediate interrogation of several staff members by the police. Authorities are working to uncover the exact circumstances under which the infant went missing from the facility's care. Hospital Administrator Aloysius Bokuma confirmed the development, describing the occurrence as unprecedented for the municipal facility. According to Bokuma, the hospital has officially notified the Northern Regional Health Directorate and submitted a comprehensive report regarding the incident. As part of the preliminary criminal investigation, police are focusing their questioning on health workers across two specific shifts who were on duty during the timeframe the baby was reported missing. In response to the crisis, the Northern Regional Health Directorate is dispatching a specialized fact-finding team to Salaga to conduct a thorough administrative probe. This team is expected to evaluate hospital protocols and security measures to identify potential lapses that may have allowed the disappearance to occur. The investigation aims to establish whether the incident was a result of negligence or a coordinated criminal act. Meanwhile, the family of the missing newborn remains in a state of extreme distress, expressing deep concern over the lack of immediate answers. They have made a passionate appeal to the Ghana Police Service and the Regional Health Directorate to expedite their efforts to locate the child. As the joint investigation between the police and health authorities progresses, the community awaits further updates on a situation that has raised serious questions regarding security at municipal health centers.

One Resued After Fuel Tanker and KIA Rhino Collide on Buipe-Tamale Highway
news|

One Resued After Fuel Tanker and KIA Rhino Collide on Buipe-Tamale Highway

Emergency responders from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) successfully rescued one individual following a severe head-on collision between a fuel tanker and a KIA Rhino on the Buipe-Tamale highway in the Savannah Region. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, June 8, 2023, prompted an urgent mobilization of emergency services after reports emerged of a passenger trapped beneath the heavy tanker. The swift intervention of the fire service was critical in preventing loss of life at the scene of the high-impact crash. The fuel tanker involved was carrying a significant load of 54,000 litres of diesel, posing a substantial risk of fire or environmental hazard. At the time of the accident, the tanker had two occupants, while the KIA Rhino was transporting five people and several head of livestock. Upon arrival, the GNFS team employed hydraulic rescue equipment to safely extricate the trapped victim. Despite the severity of the impact, the rescue was completed successfully, and the injured were attended to by medical personnel. Preliminary investigations into the cause of the collision indicate that the driver of the KIA Rhino was attempting an overtaking maneuver that ultimately failed, leading to the head-on crash with the oncoming tanker. This maneuver has been identified as a primary factor in the accident, highlighting the dangers associated with risky driving behaviors on major transit corridors. Fire officers remained on-site to secure the area and ensure that the 54,000 litres of fuel did not ignite or spill excessively. The Ghana Police Service and the GNFS have initiated a comprehensive probe into the incident to finalize the details of the crash. This accident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the adherence to traffic regulations, particularly on the Buipe-Tamale highway which serves as a vital link for goods and passengers. Authorities continue to caution motorists against speeding and dangerous overtaking to minimize the occurrence of such life-threatening incidents on the nation's roads.

Speeding Pickup Truck Strikes Pedestrian in Gruesome Tema Community 8 Accident Captured on CCTV
news|

Speeding Pickup Truck Strikes Pedestrian in Gruesome Tema Community 8 Accident Captured on CCTV

A chilling CCTV recording has surfaced documenting a horrific motor accident in Tema Community 8 on Sunday, June 7, 2026. The footage captures the moment a speeding pickup truck veered off its path and violently struck a young pedestrian, identified as Bernard, near the Top Pill Pharmacy. The incident, which occurred shortly after 3:00 PM, has left the local community in shock as the graphic nature of the collision highlights the ongoing dangers of overspeeding on urban roads. According to the visual evidence and witness reports, the pickup truck was traveling at a high velocity when it lost control and careened toward the victim. Despite Bernard’s desperate attempts to scramble out of the way, the vehicle struck him with such force that he was thrown nearly 50 meters from the point of impact. Witnesses who rushed to the scene described the victim as unresponsive immediately following the crash. In the immediate aftermath, distraught bystanders were seen urging the occupants of the truck and other onlookers to contact emergency services and call for an ambulance to provide urgent medical intervention. As of the time of reporting, the Ghana Police Service and local authorities in Tema have not yet released an official statement regarding the accident or the current condition of the victim. The incident has reignited concerns among residents regarding pedestrian safety and the enforcement of speed limits within residential and commercial zones like Community 8. Further updates are expected as investigations into the cause of the crash proceed and more information becomes available regarding the driver’s status and the medical status of the victim.

Toase District Court Dismisses Nyinahin SHS Assault Case as Calm Returns to Benso Following Violent Forestry Clash
news|

Toase District Court Dismisses Nyinahin SHS Assault Case as Calm Returns to Benso Following Violent Forestry Clash

Recent developments in the Ashanti and Western regions have highlighted the critical role of legal mediation and law enforcement in maintaining public order. In Toase, the District Court has officially struck out the assault case involving Eric Buernortey Apaflo, a teacher at Nyinahin Catholic Senior High School, following a viral video incident that had sparked nationwide concern. Simultaneously, in the Western Region town of Benso, police have successfully restored calm after a violent confrontation between local youth and forestry officials resulted in multiple injuries and significant property damage. The legal proceedings regarding the Nyinahin SHS incident reached a resolution when the court encouraged both parties to pursue a peaceful, out-of-court settlement. The case, which centered on an alleged assault by Mr. Apaflo against a student, had previously drawn intense public scrutiny. Professor Elvis Binney, Chairman of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), has actively supported this path toward reconciliation. He urged the public to refrain from making prejudicial comments or issuing threats against the teacher, emphasizing the need for a quiet atmosphere to facilitate a lasting resolution between the involved parties. Meanwhile, the disturbance in Benso underscores the volatility of local disputes. The incident began on June 7 when 22-year-old Prosper Kwame Eshun confronted Forestry Commission officials over the relocation of his motorcycle. This personal disagreement quickly escalated into a larger confrontation, with a group of youth attacking the Forestry Commission office. The ensuing chaos led to the theft of equipment and damage to state property, leaving two individuals injured, including one who sustained a gunshot wound. While law enforcement officials have managed to stabilize the situation in Benso, they remain on-site to monitor for further unrest as investigations into the property damage and theft continue. These two disparate cases—one settled in a courtroom and the other quelled by police intervention—reflect the ongoing challenges of managing community-level tensions in Ghana. Both outcomes highlight the importance of structured mediation and the swift application of the law to prevent local grievances from escalating into broader social instability.

Government Enhances Regional Infrastructure Through Digital Land Services in Volta and Expanded Metro Mass Fleet in Upper West
news|

Government Enhances Regional Infrastructure Through Digital Land Services in Volta and Expanded Metro Mass Fleet in Upper West

Ghana's regional development agenda has reached significant milestones with the launch of new projects aimed at improving public service delivery and transportation across the country. In the Volta Region, the Lands Commission has officially transitioned to a digital service model to streamline land administration, while the Upper West Region has received a critical boost to its public transport fleet. These initiatives, spearheaded by government officials and regional ministers, signal a concerted effort to leverage technology and physical assets to resolve long-standing logistical challenges facing citizens in regional capitals and rural communities alike. In Ho, the inauguration of the Digital Client Service Access Unit at the Volta Regional office of the Lands Commission marks a pivotal shift toward modernization. The facility implements the Enterprise Land Information System (ELIS), a digital framework designed to eliminate the historical difficulties associated with land documentation. Deputy Minister Alhaji Yusif Sulemana emphasized that the system will empower users to query and track their applications in real-time, providing transparency that was previously lacking. Regional Minister James Gunu underscored the link between efficient land management and regional development, calling on commission staff to prioritize public education on the new system to ensure its success. Despite the technological advancement, the Regional Lands Commission Chairman noted that operational challenges remain, including the need for a new office complex and the resolution of unpaid compensations to local landowners. Simultaneously, the Upper West Region is addressing its transportation deficit with the arrival of five new Metro Mass Transit (MMT) buses. Handed over by Regional Minister Charles Lwanga Puozuing, these vehicles are intended to alleviate the severe overcrowding and unreliability that have plagued commuters in the region. The additional fleet will allow for the restoration of regular services to key towns such as Wa, Tumu, and Nandom—services that had been previously suspended due to a lack of operational vehicles. Minister Puozuing urged staff to treat the new buses as vital public assets, stressing the importance of professional maintenance and care to ensure the longevity of the transport service. These developments are part of a broader nationwide strategy to decentralize and improve public infrastructure. While the Volta Region’s digital unit focuses on administrative efficiency, the expansion of the MMT fleet in the Upper West is part of a larger distribution plan, with more buses expected to arrive later in the year. Together, these steps reflect a dual-track approach to development: investing in the digital future of governance while maintaining the physical networks that connect the population. As these projects move forward, the success of both initiatives will depend on sustained maintenance and the continued cooperation between government agencies and the public.

ECG Schedules Multi-Regional Maintenance Outages for June 10 and 11 to Improve Power Stability
news|

ECG Schedules Multi-Regional Maintenance Outages for June 10 and 11 to Improve Power Stability

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has issued a formal notification regarding a series of planned and emergency power outages scheduled to take place on Wednesday, June 10, and Thursday, June 11, 2026. These interruptions in service are part of the company's ongoing efforts to conduct critical maintenance activities aimed at enhancing the reliability of the national grid and improving overall service delivery. While most outages are scheduled for routine system upgrades, some disruptions on June 10 are also linked to emergency repairs required to fix a transformer fault that occurred within the distribution network. On Wednesday, June 10, the power disruptions will be felt across several key regions including Ashanti, Tema, Accra West, and the Volta Region, alongside parts of Accra East and the Western Region. ECG has detailed that these outages are necessary for engineers to safely perform maintenance and address technical challenges that could otherwise lead to prolonged unplanned blackouts. Customers in these areas are encouraged to prepare for temporary service gaps as technical teams work to stabilize the local infrastructure and replace faulty equipment efficiently. The maintenance schedule continues into Thursday, June 11, with a specific focus on localized areas within the Accra East and Western Regions. In the Accra East district, residents and businesses in areas such as West Trassaco and Doryumu should expect power interruptions between the hours of 9:00 am and 5:00 pm. Meanwhile, in the Western Region, the maintenance window is set from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, affecting prominent locations including Akoon and the Apinto Hospital. The company has highlighted that these specific interventions are crucial for maintaining the health of the distribution network in these high-demand zones. ECG has expressed sincere regret for the inconveniences these scheduled outages may cause to residential and commercial customers. The utility provider is urging all affected persons to make necessary alternative arrangements for the duration of the maintenance periods. Additionally, the public is advised to stay vigilant and report any electrical hazards or irregularities to the company’s technical teams. ECG has assured the public that power will be restored immediately following the successful completion of the maintenance tasks, reaffirming its commitment to providing a more stable and efficient power supply across the country.

Johannesburg Mass Shooting Leaves 12 Dead; Texas Teenager Sentenced to 35 Years and Air Canada Pilot Faces Fraud Charges
news|

Johannesburg Mass Shooting Leaves 12 Dead; Texas Teenager Sentenced to 35 Years and Air Canada Pilot Faces Fraud Charges

At least 12 people have been killed and nine others injured in a violent mass shooting at the Jumpers informal settlement in Cleveland, Johannesburg. The attack, which occurred late Tuesday night around 23:10 local time, involved more than ten suspects who arrived in a white Toyota Quantum and opened fire indiscriminately on residents. Among the victims were eight men and three women who died at the scene, while another man later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital. South African authorities have launched an intensive manhunt for the armed individuals who fled immediately after the assault. This tragedy highlights the persistent crisis of gun violence in South Africa, a nation currently grappling with some of the highest homicide rates globally. In a significant judicial outcome in the United States, a Texas teenager has been sentenced to 35 years in prison for a fatal stabbing during a high school track meet. The defendant, Karmelo Anthony, was found guilty of killing 17-year-old Austin Metcalf following an escalating dispute between rival schools. Although the defense team argued that Anthony acted in self-defense, the jury reached a unanimous guilty verdict in under three hours. The trial garnered national attention, focusing on the intersection of school safety and the legal standards for self-defense. Following the verdict, the Frisco School District expressed condolences and called for community support for the families involved. Meanwhile, the aviation industry is facing scrutiny following revelations that a former Air Canada pilot, Geoffrey Wall, allegedly flew commercial flights for 17 years using forged credentials. The 59-year-old, who was promoted to captain in 2009, is accused of misrepresenting his qualifications throughout his nearly two-decade career. The discrepancy was discovered by Transport Canada during a routine evaluation, leading to seven counts of fraud and forgery against Wall. While Air Canada emphasized that passenger safety was never compromised and that they reported the matter as soon as it was discovered, Wall is scheduled for a court appearance to address the regulatory violations. Together, these incidents from South Africa, the United States, and Canada represent a broad spectrum of challenges for law enforcement and regulatory bodies worldwide. From the urgent need to curb mass violence in vulnerable settlements to the rigorous enforcement of professional standards in the public sector, the pursuit of justice remains a central theme across these disparate cases. As the manhunt continues in Johannesburg and the legal systems in North America conclude these high-profile proceedings, the focus remains on preventing such breaches of safety and law through enhanced oversight and community vigilance.

Salaga Hospital Nurse Detained Over Missing Newborn as Police Probe Murder in Nkwanta and Illegal Mining in Efutu
news|

Salaga Hospital Nurse Detained Over Missing Newborn as Police Probe Murder in Nkwanta and Illegal Mining in Efutu

Tension has escalated at the Salaga Municipal Hospital in the Savannah Region following the mysterious disappearance of a newborn baby girl shortly after delivery. The incident, which occurred early Wednesday morning, has led to the detention of a duty nurse as the Ghana Police Service launches an intensive investigation. According to family reports, the mother delivered between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., but relatives were subsequently denied access to the child. The situation turned critical when the mother was transferred to a ward without her baby, prompting the family to demand that the detained nurse remain in custody until the infant is located. While police have blocked potential exit routes, no breakthrough has yet been recorded. In a separate security development, the Nkwanta District Police Command is investigating the murder of 36-year-old Thomas Adon, who was shot dead on Sunday at Keri. A joint Police-Military team responded to the scene, where they recovered spent cartridges and other evidence. As the body remains at St. Joseph’s Hospital Mortuary for post-mortem, authorities are urging the public to provide information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects, while calling for calm within the Keri community. This incident has heightened concerns regarding regional security and the need for swift justice in the Oti Region. Further south, the Central Regional Police Command has moved against illegal mining activities threatening national infrastructure. Officers stormed a 'galamsey' site situated on a Ghana Water Limited pipeline at Efutu, leading to the arrest of three suspects: Eugene Oppong (28), Paul Kumash (30), and Amos Beyuo (25). Although several other miners fled the scene, police successfully impounded water pumping machines and other mining equipment. The suspects are currently in custody, with Ghana Water Limited officials emphasizing the severe risk such activities pose to the region's water supply and environmental health. Meanwhile, legal proceedings have commenced in the Volta Region regarding the protection of minors. The Sogakope Circuit Court has granted a GH"20,000 bail to Saviour Gakpo, a 30-year-old undertaker accused of defiling a nine-year-old girl in Mepe. Gakpo, who pleaded not guilty, allegedly lured the victim to an uncompleted building with sweets and money. While the court has set the next hearing for June 18, community members and local educators have voiced concerns over the safety of children, calling for more stringent measures and community vigilance to deter such offenses in the future.

GMet Issues National Storm Alert After Two People Are Swept Away by Floods in Greater Accra
news|

GMet Issues National Storm Alert After Two People Are Swept Away by Floods in Greater Accra

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has issued an urgent weather warning for widespread thunderstorms and heavy rainfall across several regions, just as reports emerge of a tragic incident in the Greater Accra Region. On the evening of June 9, 2026, two individuals, identified as an adult and a child, were reportedly swept away by powerful floodwaters at the Nurses Quarters Junction in the Ga South Municipality. This incident underscores the severe risks currently posed by atmospheric conditions as rain-bearing systems from neighboring Nigeria and Benin migrate into Ghanaian territory. The tragedy in Ga South occurred following intense rainfall that overwhelmed local drainage systems. According to reports, the child was first caught in the strong currents, prompting the adult to attempt a rescue; unfortunately, both were carried away by the water. While local authorities are responding to the situation, the incident has already heightened fears among residents in low-lying areas. Officials have reiterated calls for vigilance, particularly for those living near riverbanks and known flood hotspots, as the ground remains saturated and more rain is imminent. Looking ahead, the GMet forecast indicates that weather conditions will likely deteriorate further starting from the evening of June 10, 2026. Mostly cloudy conditions are expected to give way to intense thunderstorms and rainfall that could trigger flash floods in vulnerable urban centers. Major towns including Accra, Kasoa, Ho, and Kumasi are specifically mentioned in the alert as high-risk areas. Beyond the inland threats, GMet has also warned of increasingly rough sea conditions, urging fishermen and those involved in marine activities to exercise extreme caution or suspend operations until the weather stabilizes. The combination of structural flooding issues and intensifying seasonal storms continues to challenge the Greater Accra Region's infrastructure and emergency response capabilities. GMet and local emergency services are advising the public to secure their property and avoid attempting to cross flooded roads or bridges. As these rain-bearing systems move across the country, the priority remains public safety and the prevention of further loss of life. Citizens are encouraged to stay tuned to official weather updates and follow all directives from emergency management agencies.