NADMO alerts residents as rising Nawuni River threatens possible flooding

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has issued a warning to residents in and around Nawuni, located in the Kumbungu District of Ghana's Northern Region, to prepare for potential flooding as the water level at the Nawuni intake continues to rise. On August 23, NADMO recorded the water level at 23.85 feet, which falls within the critical range of 20 to 30 feet, indicating a heightened risk of flooding.

If additional rainfall occurs, the White Volta could overflow its banks, leading to flooding of surrounding communities and agricultural lands. Iddrisu Abubakari Ziblim, NADMO's Chief Disaster Control Officer, stated that NADMO is closely monitoring the situation, including rainfall patterns, ahead of any potential spillage from upstream Burkina Faso.

He cautioned that any spillage from the Bagre Dam, managed by Burkina Faso's national electricity company, SONABEL, could significantly exacerbate the flood risk in the Northern Region. Should SONABEL begin the spillage, NADMO will be notified of the specific date and time, with the floodwaters expected to reach the Northern Region within seven days.

NADMO has been conducting continuous pre-flood monitoring and public awareness campaigns since August 4, when it received an initial alert from SONABEL. As a precautionary measure, NADMO has pre-positioned a Rapid Response Team in Walewale, in the North East Region, to support emergency response and evacuation operations if the situation worsens.

NADMO urges residents in at-risk communities to remain vigilant and adhere to official instructions while monitoring the water levels.