The Water Resources Commission (WRC) has announced that Burkina Faso’s power utility, SONABEL, is expected to begin a controlled water spillage from the Bagre Dam on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, if the reservoir reaches the critical water level of 234.00 metres.
According to a statement issued by the WRC on August 4, the update was received from SONABEL, the operator of the Bagre Dam in Burkina Faso. The Commission revealed that the reservoir’s water level measured 232.93 metres as of August 4, with the dam currently 62.77% full.
The WRC emphasized that the Bagre Dam spillage will only take place if the water level rises to the designated trigger point of 234.00 metres, making the exercise a precautionary measure to manage rising water levels.
The Commission has advised residents living along the White Volta River and nearby communities to remain alert and take all necessary safety precautions ahead of the possible controlled release of water.
Residents have also been urged to follow all emergency and safety directives issued by their respective Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), as well as other relevant government agencies responsible for disaster management and public safety.
The Water Resources Commission assured the public that it will continue to closely monitor the water levels at the Bagre Dam and provide timely updates should the situation change.
The planned Bagre Dam water spillage serves as an important flood prevention measure, highlighting the need for communities downstream to stay informed and prepared for any potential impact along the White Volta Basin.
Source: newsthemegh.com