The Water Resources Commission (WRC) of Ghana has issued a public warning that authorities in Burkina Faso plan to begin controlled water spillage from the Bagré Dam
The Commission said the current water level at the Bagré Dam stands at 232.93 metres, representing a 62.77 per cent filling rate. The update was provided by SONABEL, the operators of the Bagré Dam in Burkina Faso.
According to a press release dated August 4, 2026 and made available to veritasnewsgh, this spillage is slated to begin on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, if the reservoir level reaches 234.00 metres.
The Commission cautioned that once the controlled spillage begins, water levels in the White Volta River and possibly other tributary water bodies are expected to rise significantly, increasing the risk of flooding in downstream communities.
Residents living along the White Volta River and adjoining areas have therefore been advised to take precautionary measures and strictly adhere to safety directives issued by their respective Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and other relevant state agencies.
The WRC urged the public, particularly those in flood-prone communities, to remain alert, avoid activities near riverbanks, relocate livestock and valuable property from low-lying areas where necessary, and closely monitor official updates as weather conditions and reservoir levels continue to be assessed.
The annual controlled spillage of the Bagré Dam has historically resulted in flooding in several downstream communities in northern Ghana, causing damage to homes, farmlands, roads and other infrastructure while displacing hundreds of residents. Authorities are therefore calling on all potentially affected communities to prepare early to minimise the impact of any flooding.
The Water Resources Commission said it will continue to monitor the situation and provide timely updates to the public as developments unfold.
