Persistent rainfalls ramp Western Cape dams
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) is pleased with the persistent rainfalls that are replenishing the Western Cape dams. The DWS Western Cape latest hydrological report of 18 September 2023 indicates that most of the River Catchment Systems are hovering above 90% mark.
The Western Cape Water Supply System (WCWSS), comprising of 6 largest dams supplying water to the City of Cape Town and surroundings, is sitting at 102,04%, a significant improvement compared to 85% same time last year.
Ms Ntombizanele Bila-Mupariwa, DWS Western Cape Provincial Heads says the Gouritz River Catchment covering Central, Little Karoo and the coastal belt has for the last few weeks hovered above 90% yield.
“This is a relief given that this river catchment was a major concern in 2021 when it was tracking below 30%” says Bila-Mupariwa.
In terms of individual dams, the Theewaterskloof, which accounts for 54% of the province's water supply, is overflowing at 100%. Other dams’ levels standings are as follows.
- Misverstand Dam 131%
- Brandvlei Dam 79,50%
- Ceres Dam 100%
- Gamka Dam 97,99%
- Clanwilliam Dam 98,08%
- Miertjieskraal 98,97%
Western Cape just like any other province, is vulnerable to many impacts such as longer periods of dry hot days, less annual rainfall, water losses, and other contributing factors. Efforts to implement water conservation and water demand measures across all water use sectors are therefore strongly encouraged.
The recent spring high tides that swept across the coastal towns including Western Cape, leaving a trail of destruction is a constant reminder that while water is life, it can also be dangerous. Water users are reminded to exercise due care when near water facilities, rivers, dams, and other water systems (especially with the sporadic rainfall that can increase water levels quickly).
For media releases, speeches and news visit the Water & Sanitation portal at: www.dws.gov.za
