The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has intensified emergency preparedness measures across communities along the White Volta basin as the spillage of Burkina Faso’s Bagré Dam is expected to begin within days.
The development follows confirmation that water levels at the dam have continued to rise steadily toward critical capacity, prompting authorities in northern Ghana to heighten their readiness for potential flooding.
Residents, farmers and communities located along the White Volta floodplains have been urged to complete safety preparations ahead of the anticipated release of excess water.
NADMO and local authorities are advising residents in vulnerable areas to move to higher ground, harvest mature crops where possible and secure livestock to reduce the risk of casualties and property losses.
The expected spillage comes after communities and farmers in the North East Region initially experienced temporary relief when anticipated releases earlier in August did not occur.
However, the continued rise in water levels at Bagré has renewed concerns about possible flooding downstream in Ghana.
The annual spillage of the Bagré Dam, particularly when combined with heavy seasonal rainfall, can cause the White Volta to overflow its banks. Such flooding can affect farmlands, infrastructure and livelihoods across vulnerable communities in northern Ghana.
Disaster management authorities have therefore placed response teams on heightened alert across affected districts. The teams are expected to support potential evacuations and coordinate emergency assistance should water levels rise significantly.
Authorities are urging residents in flood-prone communities to remain vigilant, follow official safety instructions and take precautionary measures before the spillage begins.
