Burkina Faso’s electricity utility company, SONABEL, is considering opening the spillway gates at the Bagré Dam this week as rising water levels threaten the reservoir’s stability, according to a recent update released on Tuesday. The latest hydrological analysis indicates that the Bagré Dam’s upstream water level currently sits at 234.55 meters, representing 93.98% of its normal operating water level of 235 meters. This represents a critical juncture, as the reservoir is just 0.45 meters below its target level.
SONABEL, in its Tuesday release, acknowledges the possibility of initiating the spillway opening process as early as Friday, August 28th, 2026, if the reservoir reaches a water level of 234.75 meters. This timeline is contingent on the utility’s assessment of the reservoir’s progress and potential impacts on downstream water levels. The company stresses the importance of providing advance notice to the public regarding any planned water releases.
The Bagré Dam’s release is a routine monitoring activity across Ghana, as spills from the dam can negatively affect water levels along the White Volta, increasing the risk of flooding in areas of northern Ghana. The Kompienga Dam, neighboring the Bagré Dam, remains further from capacity, with an upstream water level of 178.13 meters and a filling rate of 81.45%, a significant drop from its normal operating water level of 180 meters. Notably, SONABEL reports that a floodgate at Kompienga, which has been open since January 2026, has been releasing water at a rate of 19.08 cubic meters per second.
Ernest Sanou, a hydraulic engineer with SONABEL’s Hydroelectric Production Department, stated the decision to evaluate the spillway opening is driven by the need to manage the reservoir’s water level and mitigate potential risks. The utility is undertaking a thorough assessment of the dam’s structural integrity and the potential consequences of opening the spillway gates. The decision comes as part of a broader effort to ensure the reservoir’s safe and stable operation, given the rising water levels and the need to prevent potential downstream impacts.
Experts suggest that monitoring the Bagré Dam’s water level is vital, particularly in the context of the White Volta’s flow. The potential for increased flood risk in northern Ghana necessitates proactive management of this critical water resource. Further updates will be provided as the situation evolves, and the company is committed to transparent communication with the public regarding its planned actions. The overall goal is to maintain a sustainable water supply for the region while minimizing potential hazards.”
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Source: Adom Online
