World Bulletin / News Desk 

An explosion at a gas filling station in Ghana's capital killed at least 78 people, many of whom had sought shelter there due to torrential rain, a spokesman for the national fire brigade told JOYFM radio on Thursday.

The blast was caused by a fire that erupted in a nearby lorry terminal at around 10 p.m. (2200 GMT) then spread to the gas station and other buildings in Accra, Prince Billy Anaglate told JOYFM radio.

About a dozen people were taken to hospital after the blast, which is believed to have been an accident linked to the downpour, Prince Billy Anaglate said. 

Initial signs suggested the fire started by accident, he added.

Firefighters battled the blaze into the early hours while police and soldiers joined emergency crews helping rescue people trapped in the wreckage, said city Mayor Oko Vanderpuije.

Floods from several hours of heavy rains submerged buildings and vehicles across the city on Wednesday.