Volta Basin Authority warns of potential flooding in Greater Accra, Volta regions

The Volta Basin Authority (VBA) has warned residents along the Volta Basin to stay alert over the next five days, as rising river levels could lead to flooding in some areas.

A five-day forecast for the Volta Basin, released by the VBA, the organisation responsible for managing the water resources of the Volta River Basin,  highlights mostly low flood impacts across the Savannah, Bono East and the Eastern regions.

However, in the Greater Accra and Volta regions, a medium impact is expected, with the forecast advising residents to stay vigilant due to rising river levels.

The bulletin’s warnings are based on coordinated efforts among hydrological and meteorological agencies in six countries within the Volta Basin, which monitor rain and river levels bi-weekly.

This impact-based forecast is derived from automated analysis, factoring in recent rain patterns and river behaviours. 

Forecast

The bulletin indicated that the Greater Accra and Volta regions were likely to experience medium-impact flooding, driven by anticipated rainfall and rising river levels in those areas. 

While the risk of serious flooding remains moderate, the forecast has encouraged residents to take the necessary precautions to protect lives and property.

Controlling risks

The forecast predicted that the southern regions, portions of the Volta Basin—including parts of Ashanti, Eastern and Volta—would see moderate rainfall ranging from 10 to 30 millimeters over the next few days.

In spite of the rainfall, its impact on daily life in those areas was expected to be low.

The forecast also noted that while the Lower Volta area, including communities like Akosombo, Akuse, Asutuare, Mafi-Adidome, and Sogakope, would continue to see high river levels, the risk of flooding remained controlled.

Low flooding scenarios

In Burkina Faso, Togo, the Bono East, Eastern and Savannah regions, the bulletin forecasted a low-impact flooding scenario.

Rainfall levels are projected to be minimal across the basin’s Ivorian portions, with less than 10 millimetres expected, which should have no significant impact on local populations.

The VBA said it was working closely with local authorities to keep communities informed, emphasising that vigilance was key during this period of heightened rainfall and river flows.

As the VBA and local agencies continue to monitor conditions, it stressed the importance of preparedness, particularly in communities along major waterways in the Volta and Greater Accra regions.

It thus advised residents in those regions to remain attentive to local updates and advisories throughout the week as conditions may evolve.