Bagré Dam water level rises to 93.31% as controlled spillage threshold nears

The water level at Burkina Faso's Bagré Dam has risen to 234.50 metres, representing 93.31 per cent of the reservoir's capacity, as authorities continue to monitor the possibility of controlled water spillage.

The latest update from the Water Resources Commission (WRC) indicates that the reservoir is currently 0.50 metres below its normal operating level of 235.0 metres.

The Commission said the situation is being closely monitored as the dam approaches the level at which controlled water release may become necessary.

According to the WRC, Burkina Faso's national electricity company, Sonabel, may open the dam's spillway if the reservoir level reaches 234.75 metres.

“If this should occur, you will be updated on the date and time of the start of the water release,” the WRC stated.

The current water level is only 0.25 metres below the threshold for the possible opening of the spillway, heightening the need for continued monitoring as inflows into the reservoir increase.

The WRC said further communication would be issued if the water level reaches 234.75 metres and Sonabel proceeds with the controlled release.

Communities that could potentially be affected by any discharge have been urged to pay attention to subsequent updates from the relevant authorities regarding the timing and possible impact of the water release.