The Directorate of Water Resources Management and Planning (DGPRE) published its hydrological bulletin this morning, reporting on readings taken at 8 a.m. on the Gambia River and its tributaries. The data show contrasting trends across stations, with notable declines upstream and a worrying rise in Simenti.

Tributaries of the Gambia River

• Diaguiri (upstream of Mako): the water level fell to 4.05 m, a drop of 16 cm compared to the previous day. Last year, at the same date, it did not exceed 2.17 m.

• Afia Pont (Thiokoye): an even more marked drop was recorded, going from 5.12 m to 4.59 m, a decline of 53 cm in 24 hours. In 2024, the level was only 1.96 m.

• Diahra Pont and Goumbayel: the data were not fully collected on September 7, but this morning's measurements indicate 2.18 m and 2.13 m respectively.

• Sinthiou Malème and Niokolo Koba: no usable data could be obtained, the level no longer reaching the scale at Sinthiou Malème.

The Gambia River: variations according to the stations

• In Kédougou: the water level is 5.43 m, down 42 cm compared to the previous day. The alert level set at 7 m has not been reached, but the authorities are calling for vigilance.

• In Mako: the level has dropped slightly, from 4.76 m to 4.62 m. Here too, we remain below the alert level (6 m).

• In Gouloumbou: the readings show 6.78 m, a decrease of 5 cm in 24 hours. The alert level there is set at 12 m.

• In Simenti: The situation is attracting attention. The river has risen dramatically to 8.05 m, compared to 6.70 m the day before, a rise of 1.35 m in just 24 hours. Although the alert level (13 m) has not been reached, the hydrological authorities consider this development to be significant.

Vigilance maintained

While the overall trend is downward at several stations, the rise observed at Simenti is a reminder that recent rainfall can cause rapid changes in river levels. The DGPRE calls on local residents and authorities to remain attentive to the evolving situation, especially in areas at risk of flooding.