The Water Resources Commission (WRC) has alerted communities along the White Volta River and adjoining areas to prepare for a possible controlled spillage from the Bagre Dam in Burkina Faso next week if water levels continue to rise.
In a statement dated Wednesday. August 4, 2026, the Commission said it had received an update from SONABEL, the operators of the Bagre Dam, indicating that the reservoir’s water level stood at 232.93 metres as of Tuesday, August 4, with the dam currently 62.77% full.
According to the WRC, SONABEL intends to begin a controlled release of water from the dam on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, should the reservoir level rise to 234.00 metres.
The Commission stated, “SONABEL plans to commence controlled water spillage from the Bagré Dam from Tuesday August 11, 2026, if the reservoir water level should reach 234.00 metres.”
The WRC urged residents living along the White Volta and nearby communities not to panic but to remain vigilant and comply with directives from the relevant authorities.
It advised, “Communities along the White Volta River and adjoining areas are advised to take the necessary precautions and adhere to safety guidelines from the LOCAL ASSEMBLIES and the APPROPRIATE AGENCIES.”
The notice is intended to give residents, local authorities and disaster management agencies sufficient time to prepare for any possible impact should the controlled spillage become necessary.
The Water Resources Commission said it will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as it receives further information from the operators of the Bagre Dam.
