Western Cape dam levels increase by 7%

Western Cape dam levels rose nearly to 6% in the past week, following last week’s heavy rainfall in the province.

According to the latest dam level report, the Western Cape’s dam levels are currently sitting at 56.7%, compared to the previous week’s 51.3%.

‘’Although the department is pleased with the way dam levels are replenishing, localised flooding due to heavy rains has caused undesired consequences for some communities. The Department Wof Water & Sanitation urges communities to use caution when crossing rivers, lakes, and other waterways during heavy rains and to not settle in flood prone areas,’’ said department’s spokesperson,Sputnik Ratau.

Dams supplying the City of Cape Town increased to 70.8%, from last week’s 63.9%. This is an increase of 7%. Dams feeding Cape Town, which includes the Wemmershoek Dam, Voëlvlei Dam, Steenbras Upper and Lower Dams, Theewaterskloof Dam and Berg River Dam, are currently at a combined level of 70.83%. This is an increase from last week’s level of 63.92%. “Voëlvlei Dam is currently 57.95%, and Theewaterskloof Dam is 72.30%.

Western Cape’s Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning MEC, Anton Bredell, says albeit the recent cold fronts have caused localised flooding in the Cape Metro, the rising dam levels are to be welcomed. He urged residents to continue using water sparingly

“During the dry summer months, we are watching with great concern how dam levels inch lower and lower each week. Let us now watch levels inching upwards. If we continue to save water now, we well derive the maximum water security going into the next summer season.”

Bredell also said municipalities should continue to maintain all water infrastructure and water distribution networks.

“Ensure that you can get the maximum amount of water into your storage systems and be able to supply it to end users with the minimum of leakage along the way.”

 

COURTESY: CoCT

Done By: Mitchum George