Dam levels update

The latest average dam level for dams in the Western Cape is 66% (2020: 53%) while

the latest levels for dams providing water to the City of Cape Town, is 85.7% (2020: 71.4%).

Anton Bredell, the minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning in the Western Cape, says the Central Karoo district which continues to be severely affected by the ongoing drought, received some welcome rainfall during the past week.

“The Gamka dam outside Beaufort-West standing at 16% last year at this time. It has now recovered somewhat following good rainfall in the catchment area and is 62.6% full.”

Bredell says good rainfall was seen in Laingsburg, Prince Albert and the Meiringspoort areas.

“It’s probably not enough yet to enable us to say the drought in the larger region is over, but we are grateful for every bit of rainfall we get. In addition, some areas continued to see very little rain.”

Bredell continues to call on consumers to use water responsibly.

“The best time to save water is while you have it. Responsible water management is critical in a semi-arid country like ours.”

Major dam statistics

Voëlvlei dam – 80.9% full this week (2020: 72.7%. Last week: 82.2%)

Bergriver Dam 85.7% full this week (2020: 85.1%. Last week: 87.7%).

Theewaterskloof dam – 88.2% full this week (2020: 64.7%. Last week: 90%)

Garden Route dam – 100% full this week (2020: 98%. Last Week: 100%)

Clanwilliam Dam 61%. (2020: 49%. Last week: 65.8%) 

Data from National Department of Water and Sanitation