The hydrological bulletin published this Tuesday morning reports contrasting trends in water levels at various stations in the Gambia River basin and its tributaries. While some areas are recording a significant increase, others are experiencing a sometimes marked decrease, reflecting the complex dynamics of rivers during this rainy season.

Significant increase in Kédougou and Diaguiri

In Kédougou, the river reached a height of 6.10 m, a significant increase compared to the previous day (5.43 m). The rise is estimated at 67 cm in just 24 hours. This level, however, remains below the alert level set at 7 m. On the same date in 2024, the river did not exceed 3.49 m, a sign of heavier rainfall this year.

On the Diaguiri tributary, upstream from Mako, the water level also continues to rise, with 4.15 m recorded this morning compared to 4.05 m the day before, an increase of 10 cm. Last year at this time, the level was only 2.34 m.

Sharp drop in Afia Pont and Diahra

At Afia Pont (Thiokoye), the situation is the opposite: the level fell sharply from 4.59 m yesterday to 2.81 m this morning, a spectacular drop of 1.78 m in one day. Last year, at the same time, the water level stood at 3.62 m.

The same trend is observed at Diahra Pont, where the river has receded from 2.18 m to 1.67 m, a drop of 51 cm in 24 hours.

Stable or slightly declining levels elsewhere

• In Niokolo-Koba, the water level reached 6.39 m, down 8 cm compared to the previous day (6.47 m). However, it remains lower than the level of 7.60 m observed on September 9, 2024.

• In Mako, the river is at 4.56 m, a slight drop of 6 cm compared to yesterday.

• At Sinthiou Malème, the level is now too low to be measured on the hydrometric scale.

Missing data at some stations

The Goumbayel and Simenti stations were unable to provide readings this morning. However, the previous day's measurements showed 2.13 m and 8.05 m respectively. As a reminder, the alert level at Simenti is set at 13 m.

An upward trend in Gouloumbou

Finally, in Gouloumbou, observations reveal an increase in the water level: 7.10 m this morning compared to 6.78 m yesterday, an increase of 32 cm. This figure remains close to the 7.33 m recorded on the same date last year.

These hydrological variations reflect a contrasting situation in the Gambia River basin, where spectacular rises and sudden drops alternate depending on the area. The water services are calling for continued vigilance, especially in areas close to the alert levels.