Dam Levels show slight increase | Western Cape Government

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Dam Levels show slight increase

28 May 2019

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

 

The average dam level in the Western Cape currently stands at 33.5% (2018: 18.9%). Dams supplying the City of Cape Town stand at an average of 45.7% (2018: 23.4%).  

Anton Bredell, the minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning in the Western Cape, has welcomed the slight increase in dam levels across the province ahead of the winter and has urged citizens to prepare for the expected wetter months that lie ahead.

“We are expecting rain in the coming months and we want to urge people to take precautions in the event of wet weather. In addition, despite a greater sense of comfort at the moment regarding dam levels in the province, I want to continue to urge the public to use water responsibly.”

Latest Major Dam statistics

Voëlvlei dam – 55.5% full this week (2018: 16.6%. Last week: 54.8%)

Bergriver Dam 70% full this week (2018: 41.9%. Last week: 68.3%).

Theewaterskloof dam – 35.5% full this week (2018: 14.7%. Last week: 35.3%)

Clanwilliam Dam 9.5%. (2018: 6.4%. Last week: 9.4%) 

Some tips on preparing for wet weather:

In case of emergency other relevant numbers to call are:

Cape Winelands: Langeberg Municipality         0860 88 1111

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

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. Ideally you want water to be able to flow away quickly and not dam up around your home.
  • Have an evacuation plan. Everyone in your family has to know where to go to find shelter.
  • Prepare an emergency toolkit. This should include candles, matches, drinking water 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 if possible. Alert the authorities in case of emergency.

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.

Media Enquiries: 

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

E-mail:                    James-Brent.Styan@westerncape.gov.za