The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has begun preparations to mitigate possible flooding in the North East Region following notification from Burkina Faso that the Bagre Dam will be opened from Tuesday, August 11, 2026.

The planned spillage is expected to increase the volume of water entering Ghana through the White Volta River and its tributaries, potentially raising water levels in communities situated along waterways and other flood-prone locations.

In an alert issued by its North East Regional Office, NADMO urged residents, farmers, fishermen, herdsmen and other persons operating in vulnerable areas to take immediate precautionary measures to safeguard lives and property.

“The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), North East Regional Office, wishes to inform the general public that the authorities responsible for the Bagre Dam in Burkina Faso have officially notified Ghana that the Bagre Dam will be spilt from Tuesday, 11th August, 2026.

“NADMO therefore strongly advises all residents, farmers, fishermen, herdsmen, and other persons living or working along riverbanks and low-lying areas to take precautionary measures,” the statement said.

Move to safer areas

NADMO said the increased downstream flow could result in rising water levels and flooding, particularly in communities along the White Volta and its tributaries.

“The spillage is expected to increase the volume of water flowing downstream into Ghana through the White Volta River and its tributaries. Communities located along riverbanks and flood-prone areas may experience rising water levels, which could result in flooding,” it added.

The organisation consequently advised people living in vulnerable locations to relocate to safer areas before the situation worsened.

Residents were also cautioned against entering river channels and floodplains for farming, fishing, animal grazing or other activities.

“Do not farm, fish, graze animals, or undertake any activity within river channels and floodplains,” NADMO cautioned.

Farmers whose farms are located along riverbanks have, in particular, been encouraged to take steps to harvest their crops early where necessary to minimise losses.

“Farmers farming along the river banks are advised to harvest their farm produce earlier when necessary before the dam is spilt,” NADMO said.

The organisation further urged residents to move valuables, foodstuffs, livestock and farm equipment away from areas considered vulnerable to flooding.

It also warned the public not to attempt crossing flooded roads, rivers, streams or bridges, while calling for strict compliance with safety directives issued by NADMO, the security agencies, district assemblies and other relevant authorities.

Public education intensified

NADMO said district offices across the North East Region had been directed to intensify public education and sensitisation, particularly in communities located along the White Volta and other vulnerable waterways.

The organisation said it would continue to monitor the situation and provide updates to the public as developments unfold.