SEMAF: Manantali Barrage Lâchers d'Eau Alerte for Senegal River

• SEMAF announced impending water releases from the Manantali dam, expected this week.
• The discharges will begin when the dam's water level reaches 208.05 meters IGN, as the reservoir nears full capacity.
• Communities along the Senegal River are warned of potential rising water levels and disruptions to their activities.
• Fishermen, farmers, and herders are advised to take precautions, avoid exposed areas, and follow official instructions.
• SEMAF will issue a follow-up communiqué to announce the conclusion of the water releases.

Riverine communities are urged to implement necessary safeguards for both individuals and assets, to steer clear of vulnerable zones, and to adhere strictly to directives from competent authorities.

The Société d’exploitation de Manantali et de Félou (SEMAF), the entity responsible for operating the Manantali and Félou facilities, has announced forthcoming water discharges from the Manantali dam. This critical measure is anticipated to commence during the current week, as communicated in an official statement issued on October 11, 2026. The primary objective of these controlled releases is to manage the reservoir's volume as it approaches its maximum operational limit.

SEMAF's alert specifies that the water releases will be initiated once the dam's retention level reaches 208.05 meters IGN. This threshold indicates that the lake is nearing its full capacity, necessitating the controlled discharge to maintain operational safety and integrity. The announcement serves as a proactive `barrage Manantali avertissement` to all stakeholders in the region.

In light of the planned discharges, SEMAF has issued a strong advisory to communities residing along the Senegal River. The alert emphasizes the need for heightened vigilance due to the potential `montée des eaux` (rising water levels) that could result from the `Manantali barrage lâchers d'eau alerte`. These elevated water levels pose various risks to downstream areas and could significantly disrupt the daily activities of local populations.

Specific groups identified as potentially affected include fishermen, agricultural workers, livestock breeders, and other individuals who utilize the river and its surrounding lands. These communities are strongly encouraged to take all necessary precautions to safeguard both human life and property. Furthermore, they are advised to avoid areas prone to inundation and to strictly follow any instructions provided by relevant governmental authorities to mitigate `risques inondation Manantali`.

The decision to release water from the Manantali dam underscores the operational management required for large-scale hydraulic infrastructure, particularly when natural water inflows push reservoirs to their limits. This measure is necessitated by the reservoir's approach to its maximum operational capacity, specifically when the water level reaches 208.05 meters IGN. The `SEMAF Manantali inondation` warning is therefore a critical component of public safety and resource management.

SEMAF has also indicated that a subsequent communiqué will be issued to inform the public about the cessation of these water releases. Until that time, riverine residents are urged to maintain their vigilance and actively participate in disseminating the alert within their communities. This collective effort is crucial for minimizing potential hazards and ensuring that all individuals are adequately prepared for the anticipated changes in the `fleuve Sénégal` water levels.

Lawyers representing businesses or individuals in the Senegal River basin should advise clients on potential property damage, business interruption, or contractual implications (e.g., force majeure clauses) arising from the anticipated water releases and flood risks. They should also monitor for any regulatory guidance or liability issues related to the dam's operation and public safety warnings.

Source: Original reporting via SenePlus.