The latest average dam level for dams in the Western Cape is 75.6% (2020: 60.6%) while the latest average level for dams providing water to the City of Cape Town, is 96.9% (2020: 77.56%).
Anton Bredell, the minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning in the Western Cape, says the provincial dam levels are looking very good for this time of year however the province remains concerned about an agricultural drought in some parts of the Western Cape.
“Based on the latest bi-annual veld assessment, the Western Cape Department of Agriculture has categorised the veld conditions in parts of the Central Karoo, Garden Route and northern part of the West Coast District as critical or extremely critical. This follows years of continued drought in those areas.”
The Minister has noted the decision by the National Disaster Management Centre to issue a National Drought Declaration for South Africa on 20 July.
“The Western Cape government has welcomed this declaration as we believe it will open the way to securing further support for farmers in the drought-stricken areas.”
The provincial department of agriculture has to date supported 1115 Western Cape farmers located in drought-stricken areas with fodder support to date.
Weather Warnings
The South African Weather Services has issued some weather warnings for this week, including the notice that a cold front will make landfall on Tuesday. The front will bring light rain over the Southern Cape as well as strong winds and rough seas.
Major Dam statistics
Voëlvlei dam – 83.9% full this week (2020: 72.5%. Last week: 80.8%)
Bergriver Dam 100% full this week (2020: 97.5%. Last week: 100%).
Theewaterskloof dam – 102% full this week (2020: 73%. Last week: 101.5%)
Clanwilliam Dam 99.91%. (2020: 71.8%. Last week: 99.9%)
Data from National Department of Water and Sanitation
James-Brent Styan
Spokesperson for the Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell
Mobile: 084 583 1670
Telephone: 021 483 2820