The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMeT) has issued a warning indicating that additional rainfall is anticipated in the lower Volta Basin, the area which has been severely affected by the release of water from the Akosombo Dam. Consequently, the agency has called on the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) and other relevant authorities to take immediate measures to relocate affected individuals to safer areas.

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The Head of Central Analysis and Forecasting for GMeT, Felicity Ahafianyo, emphasized the importance of flood victims adhering to NADMO's guidance and promptly relocating to reduce the risks associated with ongoing and anticipated rainfall in the region. She explained that the weather forecast indicates the likelihood of rain in the North Tongu area and its surroundings until the 23rd of October.

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“Rain is still in the forecast for North Tongu and its environs. Between now and the 23rd of October, rain is still in the forecast over the lower Volta basin area,” she said.“I think from our point, we will also add our voice for our brothers and sisters to relocate, and listen to the authorities, NADMO, VRA, and all other authorities. They should relocate to a safer place,” she added.

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Currently, residents in Mepe, located in the North Tongu district and various parts of the Volta region, are grappling with the repercussions of the recent spillage from the Akosombo Dam, leading to the flooding of their homes and resulting in significant losses.

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The decision by the Volta River Authority (VRA) to release excess water from the Akosombo and Kpong hydroelectric dams, although necessary for dam integrity, has presented a range of challenges for the affected communities.Homes, farms, and even cemeteries have been submerged in floodwaters, disrupting essential services, including water and electricity supply, and necessitating the relocation of residents to higher ground for safety.

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The VRA has justified the controlled spillage due to the rapid filling of both dams to capacity, primarily from upstream rainfall. Engineers at the VRA have underlined the critical significance of maintaining water levels within the dams to prevent potential dam failure, emphasizing the necessity of this controlled spillage to protect the structural integrity of the dams.

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