Dam Levels drop below 35%

29 April 2019

Statement by Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell.

The average dam level in the Western Cape has dropped to below 34.8% (2018: 16.6%). Dams supplying the City of Cape Town stand at an average of 46.4% (2018: 20.5%).  

Anton Bredell, the minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning in the Western Cape, says the situation remains as predicted ahead of the winter season.

“We have been getting some rain across large parts of the province in recent weeks but not enough to make a meaningful difference just yet. We are expecting more rain in the coming weeks and months as the regular winter rainfall period kicks in.”

Bredell has cautioned communities across the province to be proactive and to prepare for the colder and wetter months to come.

“In addition, the public is advised to contact their closest disaster management centre as quickly as possible should an emergency occur.  The easiest number to remember to call in an emergency is 112.”

In case of emergency other relevant numbers to call are:

Cape Winelands Municipality                             021 888 5837

Eden District:                                                         044 805 5071

Central Karoo:                                                       023 414 2603

West Coast:                                                             022 433 8700

Overberg:                                                                 028 271 8111

City of Cape Town:                                                 107 landline or 021 480 7700

Major Dam statistics

Voëlvlei dam – 56.9% full this week (2018: 14.2%. Last week: 57.5%)

Bergriver Dam 67.3% full this week (2018: 36.9%. Last week: 67.6%).

Theewaterskloof dam – 36.3% full this week (2018: 11%. Last week: 36.6%)

Clanwilliam Dam 11.9%. (2018: 5%. Last week: 13.2%) 

The latest dam level data per the National Department of Water and Sanitation

Flooding related Tip Sheet

How Can I Prepare for a Flood?

• Identify the risk in your local area.
• Prepare a home emergency plan, and identify risks around your home.
• Remove leaves (from downpipes or gutters) or any other items that can increase the risk of flooding in your area.
• Have an evacuation plan. Everyone in your family has to know where to go to find shelter.
•  Prepare an emergency toolkit. This should include a first aid kit, torch and portable radio with batteries, candles and waterproof matches, drinking water, a multi-tool, whistle and emergency contact numbers.

What Should I do during a flooding?

• Monitor current flood warnings. Listen to the radio for emergency warnings, evacuation advice and weather updates.
• Avoid entering floodwater unless it is necessary, and never underestimate the strength of floodwater, even if you are inside a vehicle.
• Follow all instructions from emergency authorities.
• Turn off all electricity and water and take your cellphone with you.
• Assist elderly and disabled neighbours.

What Should I do after the flood?

• Before entering your house, wait until the water has dropped below floor level.
• Check with electricity and water authorities to know whether it is safe for you to use these resources.
• Be aware of contamination if water sources have been flooded; this could be unsafe to drink.

ENDS.