The Western Cape’s major dams are swelling fast as persistent winter rains lash the province, bringing much-needed relief and pushing dam levels well above the 80% mark, according to the latest data from the City of Cape Town.
As of Thursday, 17 July, the combined storage level of the six major dams has reached 83% capacity – up from 79.8% the previous week.
While encouraging, the current levels remain slightly lower than the 93.1% recorded at the same time last year.
Major dam levels
- Theewaterskloof Dam: 78.4%
(The province’s largest dam, supplying over half of Cape Town’s water) - Voëlvlei Dam: 80.7%
- Berg River, Steenbras Lower, Steenbras Upper, and Wemmershoek Dams: All show steady gains
Forecasters are predicting more cold fronts and sustained rainfall in the coming days, which could give dam levels another boost as the Western Cape benefits from a wetter-than-average winter season.
Far cry from Day Zero
The rising dam levels are a stark contrast to the 2017-2018 water crisis, when Cape Town faced the looming threat of Day Zero – the point at which municipal water supplies would be shut off.
During that period, Theewaterskloof Dam plunged below 20%, and water rationing became a harsh reality for residents.
Although the risk has eased considerably, officials are reminding the public not to become complacent.
“While dam levels are encouraging, climate variability and long-term water demand still pose significant risks,” a City spokesperson warned.
“Water conservation must remain part of our everyday habits.”
Residents are urged to continue using water sparingly and report leaks to help maintain the city’s improved water security.
WESTERN CAPE DAM LEVELS
Do you still practice water-saving at your home?
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