The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has issued a flood warning to residents living along the White Volta River and other flood-prone communities in Ghana’s North East Region ahead of the planned Bagré Dam spillage in neighboring Burkina Faso.
According to NADMO, authorities managing the Bagré Dam have officially notified Ghana that water will be released from the dam beginning Tuesday, August 11, 2026, raising concerns about possible flooding downstream.
Bagré Dam Spillage Expected to Raise White Volta Water Levels
In a public advisory issued by its North East Regional Office, NADMO said the Bagré Dam water spillage is expected to significantly increase water flow into Ghana through the White Volta River and its tributaries.
The organisation warned that communities located along riverbanks and other low-lying areas could experience rising water levels, increasing the risk of flooding and property damage.
NADMO Advises Residents to Evacuate Flood-Prone Areas
As part of its flood preparedness measures, NADMO has urged residents, farmers, fishermen, herdsmen, and others living or working near rivers and floodplains to relocate to safer locations before floodwaters arrive.
The disaster management agency also advised the public to avoid:
- Farming along riverbanks and floodplains
- Fishing in affected waterways
- Grazing livestock near rivers
- Carrying out activities within river channels
Residents have also been encouraged to move valuable belongings, food supplies, livestock, and farming equipment to safer areas to minimize potential losses.
Farmers Urged to Harvest Crops Early
NADMO has specifically called on farmers cultivating land along the White Volta River and other vulnerable waterways to harvest mature crops early where possible before the commencement of the dam spillage.
The agency said taking early preventive measures could help reduce agricultural losses resulting from floodwaters.
Public Advised to Avoid Flooded Roads and Rivers
The organisation warned residents against attempting to cross flooded roads, rivers, streams, and bridges during the expected flooding period.
NADMO urged the public to strictly follow safety directives issued by:
- The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO)
- Security agencies
- Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs)
- Other emergency response authorities
NADMO Intensifies Flood Awareness Campaign
The agency revealed that district NADMO offices across the North East Region have been directed to intensify public education, community sensitisation, and flood preparedness campaigns, particularly in communities situated along the White Volta River and other flood-risk zones.
NADMO said it will continue monitoring the situation closely and provide timely updates as the Bagré Dam spillage progresses.
Reiterating its commitment to public safety, the organisation urged residents to take the warning seriously, reminding Ghanaians that “Safety First – Early Action Saves Lives.”
Source: newsthemegh.com