The average dam level in the Western Cape has dropped below 60% and stands at 59.6% (2017:33.5%). At the start of the winter season, the average dam level for the province hit a record low of 16%.
The situation also shows a marked improvement from what the situation was at this time in 2017 when the average dam level for the province was 33.5%. This indicates the difference the winter rains have made across the province this year. The situation in the Karoo regions of the province remains severe with many areas continuing to rely on groundwater.
Anton Bredell, the minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning in the Western Cape, says the City of Cape Town is better off than the province, with dams supplying the city with water, currently on average 69.6% full (2017: 34.7%).
“We have noted the city’s recent decision to reduce water restriction levels to a level three. At the beginning of October the level was still a record level 6B in the city. We note that the city’s idea is to give back to citizens. This is achieved by the fact that the reduced restriction means that water is much cheaper. We would like to urge consumers not to use the lower restriction levels to revert to increased water consumption. The bonus is that if citizens can continue to use lower amounts of water, the fact is that they will now pay a lot less.”
Major Dam statistics
Theewaterskloof dam – 54% full this week (2017: 22%. Last week: 55%)
Voëlvlei dam – 89.6% full this week (2017: 26%. Last week: 91.5%)
Bergriver Dam 95% full this week (2017: 64%. Last week: 96%).
Clanwilliam Dam 85%. (2017: 88%. Last week: 98%)
ENDS.
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