The latest hydrological observations taken this Wednesday morning at 8 a.m. reveal a contrasting trend in water levels in the Gambia River basin and its tributaries. Some stations show an upward trend, while others record a significant decline, reflecting the variability of rainfall in the region.

Tributaries: unequal rises and falls

• Diaguiri (upstream from Mako): the water level is slightly rising, reaching 4.27 m compared to 4.15 m yesterday, an increase of 12 cm. Last year at the same time, the level was 4.21 m.

• Afia Pont (Thiokoye): the drop is spectacular. The level fell by 59 cm in one day, going from 2.81 m to 2.22 m. On the same date in 2024, the station displayed 5.19 m, more than double.

• Diahra Pont: the trend is upward, with a jump of 51 cm in 24 hours, reaching 2.18 m against 1.67 m yesterday.

• Goumbayel: almost perfect stability, with a very slight drop of 1 cm (2.07 m against 2.08 m the day before).

• Niokolo Koba: level fell by 16 cm, from 6.39 m to 6.23 m. In 2024, it reached 7.90 m, almost 1.70 m more.

• Sinthiou Malème: the water level no longer reaches the scale, a sign of gradual drying up.

The Gambia River: notable variations depending on the stations

• Kédougou: the river continues to fall, dropping from 6.10 m to 5.94 m (-16 cm). In 2024, it was at 6.43 m. The alert level is set at 7 m.

• Mako: opposite trend, with a clear rise of 22 cm in one day (4.78 m compared to 4.56 m yesterday). In 2024, the level was 4.21 m. The alert level is set at 6 m.

• Simenti: No data has been recorded over the past two days. Last year, on the same date, the level reached 7.76 m, well below the alert level set at 13 m.

• Gouloumbou: strong increase of 44 cm in 24 hours, reaching 7.54 m compared to 7.10 m the day before. Last year, at the same time, the river was at 7.28 m.

Levels below alert levels

Despite the fluctuations observed, no site has yet crossed the critical thresholds. In Kédougou, the alert level remains at 7 m, compared to 6 m in Mako and 13 m in Simenti. However, hydrological authorities recommend maintaining vigilance, especially in areas prone to flash floods.