The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMeT) has issued a warning regarding the persistence of rain in the lower Volta basin area, where many individuals have been forced to evacuate due to the discharge of water from the Akosombo Dam.
In response to this situation, the agency has urged the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) and various other authorities to expedite the relocation of affected residents to safer locations.
Felicity Ahafianyo, the Head of Central Analysis and Forecasting at GMeT, emphasized the importance of flood victims adhering to NADMO’s directives and promptly moving to mitigate further risks. She noted, “Rain is still in the forecast for North Tongu and its surroundings. Between now and the 23rd of October, rain is still in the forecast over the lower Volta basin area.”
“From our perspective, we also call upon our fellow citizens to relocate and heed the guidance of the authorities, including NADMO, VRA, and other relevant bodies. They should secure a safer haven,” she added.
Communities in Mepe within the North Tongu district and several parts of the Volta region are currently grappling with a significant crisis. The recent overflow of the Akosombo Dam has led to the inundation of their homes, resulting in substantial losses and the relocation of residents to higher ground for safety.
This distressing situation arises from the decision of the Volta River Authority (VRA) to release surplus water from the Akosombo and Kpong hydroelectric dams. While essential for the dam’s structural integrity, this move has presented a multitude of challenges for the Mepe community and its surroundings.
Farms, residences, and even cemeteries now lie submerged in floodwaters, disrupting vital services and causing water and electricity supply interruptions. Consequently, residents are grappling with the multifaceted consequences of this flooding.
The Volta River Authority (VRA) cites the necessity of spillage due to upstream rainfall, rapidly filling both dams to capacity. Despite their hydroelectric nature, engineers at VRA stress the critical significance of managing water levels within the dams to avert potential dam failures.
