Western Cape dam levels are showing signs of strain as the major reservoirs collectively experience a 2% decrease, while the average daily water consumption surges to a concerning 1.03 billion litres.
Western Cape dam levels report for the week starting Monday, 22 January 2024
At the forefront of these concerns are the six major dams, which together, form the backbone of the region’s water supply.
The Berg River Dam, a significant contributor, now registers at 86.4% capacity, a slight dip from its previous standing. Similarly, the Steenbras Lower and Upper dams have shown decreases, holding at 79.3% and 97.0%, respectively.
The largest of them all, Theewaterskloof Dam, known for its vast expanse and crucial role in water supply, has dipped to 80.8%. Voëlvlei and Wemmershoek dams, though smaller, are vital cogs in the system, now recording levels at 79.0% and 93.9%.
These numbers, though not alarming, signal a need for continued wise water use among the populace.
Dam | Capacity (Ml) | % Full |
---|---|---|
Berg River | 130,010 | 86.4% |
Steenbras Lower | 33,517 | 79.3% |
Steenbras Upper | 31,767 | 97.0% |
Theewaterskloof | 480,188 | 80.8% |
Voëlvlei | 164,095 | 79.0% |
Wemmershoek | 58,644 | 93.9% |
In contrast, the minor dams, often overshadowed by their larger counterparts, paint a different picture.
With a collective capacity of several million litres, these smaller reservoirs, including the likes of Alexandra, De Villiers, and Hely-Hutchinson, have seen a combined decrease of 1.67% in their storage levels, now standing at 62.5% full.
This decline, while smaller in percentage, is a crucial reminder of the broader water scarcity issues facing the region.
Despite early winter rains being above average, the cumulative effect of high daily consumption and decreased dam levels calls for a community-wide effort in wise water use.
While the current status does not yet spell crisis, it highlights the importance of sustainable water practices in safeguarding the Western Cape’s water future.