The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has been closely monitoring the situation at the Vaal Dam, which has seen a remarkable recovery in its water levels.
After an alarming dip to just 24.3% last week, the water level has surged to 46.2% this week, and it continues to rise rapidly, now standing at 50.53%.
Impact of Recent Rainfall
Wisane Mavasa, spokesperson for the department, explained that the dam had been in a steady decline over the past few months.
To address the critical situation, the department had even made plans to release water from the Sterkfontein Dam into the Vaal Dam when the water level dropped to 18%.
However, with recent rainfall across Gauteng and surrounding provinces, including the Free State, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West, and KwaZulu-Natal, the water levels have risen significantly, making the planned water release unnecessary.
Dam Levels Continue to Improve
Mavasa confirmed that the risk of the Vaal Dam dipping below its minimum operating level of 18% has now passed.
The recent rains have been crucial in reversing the dam’s downward trend, which had been exacerbated by high temperatures leading to evaporation and low inflows from the Vaal catchment.
“The current dam level is now above 50%, and there’s a strong inflow due to the recent rains,” Mavasa stated.
“We no longer need to release water from the Sterkfontein Dam to support the Vaal Dam.”
The rising water levels in the Vaal Dam have also positively impacted the Integrated Vaal River System (IVRS), which supplies water to Gauteng and key industries in the province.
The IVRS level has risen from 71.4% to 79.4%, further boosting the water supply.
National Improvement in Water Storage
The rainfall has had a broader impact across the country, with significant improvements in surface water storage.
Nationally, the storage capacity in dams has jumped to 79.8%, up from 74.5% last week.
Provinces like Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal have seen the highest increases, with Mpumalanga rising from 82.9% to 93.1% and KwaZulu-Natal from 81.0% to 91.2%.
Limpopo also saw a notable increase from 73.2% to 82.6%, while North West rose from 64.7% to 72.5%. The Free State, too, experienced an increase from 68.5% to 72.6%.
Parts of the provinces have received exceptional rainfall, with some areas recording over 200mm of rain.
The department forecasts more scattered rainfall in the central and eastern regions of the country, including Free State, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal, which should continue to improve water storage levels.
Warning for Residents Amid Heavy Rains
Despite the good news, the DWS has urged caution.
Heavy rains have caused localised flooding, and residents in affected areas are advised to stay away from water bodies like rivers, lakes, and dams.
The public is urged to avoid crossing bridges and refrain from driving through flooded areas, as even shallow water can be dangerous.
“Water can be deadly during floods, and it should never be underestimated,” Mavasa warned.
“Let’s stay safe and avoid unnecessary risks. If possible, stay indoors during heavy rainfall.”
Continued Call for Water Conservation
While the country’s dam levels are improving, the department has reiterated its message of water conservation.
Citizens are urged to continue using water sparingly to ensure a sustainable supply in the future.
As the situation evolves, it remains crucial for everyone to stay informed about local water levels and adjust their water usage accordingly.
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