The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has issued a flood alert for communities around Nawuni in the Kumbungu District of the Northern Region as rising water levels increase the risk of the White Volta overflowing its banks.
NADMO recorded a water level of 23.85 feet at the Nawuni intake on Saturday, August 23. The measurement falls within the critical range of 20 to 30 feet, raising concerns about possible flooding of surrounding communities and farmlands.
Authorities say the risk could become more severe if heavy rainfall continues in the area or water is released from the Bagre Dam in neighbouring Burkina Faso.
Chief Disaster Control Officer of NADMO, Iddrisu Abubakari Ziblim, told JoyNews that the organisation is closely tracking developments, including rainfall patterns and the possibility of an upstream spillage.
He said the current situation remained manageable but warned that any release of water from the Bagre Dam could significantly increase pressure on the White Volta and heighten the threat to communities in the Northern Region.
The dam is operated by Burkina Faso’s national electricity company, SONABEL.
According to Mr Ziblim, Ghanaian authorities will be informed of the specific date and time of any planned spillage. Once released, the resulting floodwaters are expected to take approximately seven days to reach the Northern Region.
NADMO began intensified pre-flood monitoring and public education on August 4 after receiving an initial alert from SONABEL through the Water Resources Commission.
The disaster management agency has also strengthened its emergency preparedness by positioning a Rapid Response Team at Walewale in the North East Region.
The team is expected to support emergency operations, including possible evacuations, should the situation worsen.
NADMO is urging residents in flood-prone communities to remain vigilant, monitor official updates and comply with instructions from emergency authorities as the organisation continues to monitor water levels at Nawuni.
Residents have also been advised to take precautionary measures early, particularly in areas close to the White Volta and other vulnerable waterways.
