Ghana was hit by an earth tremor on Monday, December 12. This affected parts of its capital, Accra.
Some places affected include Adabraka, Gbawe, McCarthy hill and Mallam.
Many panicked and left their office spaces as a result. Many, since the incident have asked which institutions is supposed to inform Ghanaians on earthquakes and earth tremors.
It is the work of the Ghana Geological Survey Authority.
The Ghana Geological Survey Authority was established as an Authority of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources in accordance with Ghana Geological Service Act, 2016 (Act 928). to advise, promote and research on geoscientific issues concerning mineral resources, groundwater, environment, geo-hazards and land use planning to support sustainable economic development in Ghana.
Functions of the Authority
- Advise the Government on matters related to geology, geo-hazards and the search for and exploitation and development of mineral resources in the country;
- Conduct geological, geochemical, geophysical, seismological, hydrological, geochemical, and geo-environmental survey, mineral exploration, systematic mapping of rocks and other geological or geoscience materials including soil and clays of the country including its offshore areas;
- Develop and maintain a National Seismic Network to monitor earthquakes, tsunamis and blasts that have the potential to impact negatively on persons and property in the country and for optimum land-use planning;
- Serve as a national repository for geoscientific data and information generated by public and private entities including mining and mineral exploration companies which operate in the country;
- Conduct site or foundation investigations and issue certified reports prior to major construction works or projects that have the potential to impact on the subsurface structure, socio-economic, cultural and aesthetic environment;
- Conduct ground surveys or airborne surveys, take samples and make boring necessary for the conduct of investigations and preparation of relevant reports to assist with national development;
- Liaise with relevant public agencies involved in land-use planning for sustainable use of the special environment in Ghana;
- Perform the functions and undertake investigations that the Minister may assign to the Authority;
- Perform any other functions conferred on it by this Act or that are ancillary to the achievement of the objectives of the Authority.
It is not the role of the Ghana Meteorological Agency, as has been pointed out.
Nobody asked but @GhanaMet DOES NOT provide forecast on earthquakes or earth tremors.
— Ghana Meteo. Agency (@GhanaMet) December 12, 2022
OUR RESPONSIBILITIES
We provide:
- Public weather forecast on daily basis (national weather) on radio and television
- Collect, process, store and disseminate meteorological information
- Undertake collaborative work with Agricultural Agencies and others on meteorological related matters and provide expert advice
- Provide expert advice on wetlands including birds sanctuaries.
- Provide meteorological information to meet international set standards
- Render other meteorological services on routine/requests.