Department of Water and Sanitation Increases Water Outflows at Vaal Dam to Control Rising Levels in South Africa

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has taken proactive measures to control water levels at the Vaal Dam.

On Monday, they opened six additional valves, increasing water outflows by another 200 cubic metres per second (m³/s).

This move is aimed at managing the rising water levels and preventing any potential flooding.

Rising Water Levels Trigger Increased Outflows

This latest step comes after the department had already opened one sluice gate last week to begin controlling the dam’s water release.

With water levels continuing to rise, the DWS decided that further action was necessary to manage the situation effectively.

As of now, the Vaal Dam is at full capacity, sitting at 107.43%.

Bloemhof Dam Also Under Increased Water Release

In addition to the Vaal Dam, the Bloemhof Dam is also seeing increased water releases.

The department raised the flow rate from 350.97 m³/s to 400 m³/s starting Monday.

This is to accommodate the expected additional water coming from the Vaal Dam.

Currently, water levels at Bloemhof are at 99.97%, and the goal is to maintain them below 100% to avoid overtopping.

Safety Measures in Place to Prevent Flooding

Despite the higher releases, the department reassured the public that the current levels of water being released from both dams are within safe operational limits.

There is no immediate risk of overtopping or flooding along the riverbanks downstream.

This careful management of water flow aims to maintain safety in surrounding areas while ensuring the dams can handle the excess rainfall.