The latest hydrological bulletin from the Directorate of Water Resources Management and Planning (DGPRE), published this Monday, highlights significant variations in the level of the Gambia River. While the upstream region is recording a worrying decline, the downstream region is experiencing an encouraging increase.

Falling levels in Kédougou and Mako

The hydrometric stations at Kédougou and Mako have shown a downward trend over the past 48 hours. At Kédougou, the level fell from 500 cm on August 30 to 465 cm on September 1, a decrease of 35 cm. At Mako, the decline is even more marked, reaching 51 cm over the same period.

These declines are fueling concern among local populations, whose agricultural activities depend heavily on the river.

Significant increase in Simenti and Gouloumbou

Conversely, the Simenti and Gouloumbou stations recorded a rise in water levels. At Simenti, the river rose 45 cm in two days, reaching 805 cm. At Gouloumbou, the rise was 43 cm, bringing the level to 742 cm.

For fishermen and farmers in these areas, this increase is seen as a positive sign for the season.

A risk prevention tool

The DGPRE (Directorate General for Regional Planning and Reform) reiterates that these daily measurements are essential for anticipating flood risks and informing local populations. The data, collected morning and evening, is transmitted to local authorities to strengthen the early warning system.

"Our mission is to ensure rigorous monitoring in order to protect populations and their activities against climatic hazards," explains Idrissa Ka, head of the Tambacounda Water Resources Brigade.

Vigilance maintained

Between a worrying decline upstream and a reassuring rise downstream, the Gambia River illustrates the complexity of hydrological balances during the rainy season. The DGPRE invites local residents to remain attentive to upcoming bulletins to monitor the evolving situation.