Dam levels in the Western Cape have seen a major boost following good rainfall in the past seven days. The biggest dam in the province, The waterskloof, has seen its level increase from by 8.6% from last week, to reach 61.7%. Two of the Cape’s main dams: Berg river and Steenbras are over the 100% mark, and the province’s overall water storage has pushed past the 70% mark for the first time in years.
The major dam on the West Coast Clanwilliam Dam has seen levels rise by 24.3% to 71.6% in the past week. From dams to canals, rivers and waterfalls the Mother City’s cup is full and overflowing.
The Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell, says the latest average level for dams across the province is 56.6% (2018: 50.5%). The City of Cape Town’s dams have shot up to 72% full (2018: 56.4%).
“Four of the five major catchment areas now see dam levels in excess of 50% full. The ongoing problem area is the Gouritz River Catchment area which feeds a big part of the interior Karoo region. We remain concerned regarding the ongoing drought challenge particularly to the agriculture sector in this region.”
The Western Cape Disaster Management Centre has been alerted by the South African Weather Service that further adverse weather conditions are to be expected this week.
More rain with strong wind, rough seas and very cold weather is still expected in cape town this winter.