The Department of Water and Sanitation’s (DWS) weekly hydrological report on the status of dam levels has revealed that the Vaal Dam continues to sustain impressive water levels above full capacity, showing only a minimal week-to-week variation.

The latest hydrological data shows a marginal decrease from 101.8% last week to 101.0% this week, effectively keeping the dam at 100% capacity and demonstrating ongoing system resilience.

The Integrated Vaal River System (IVRS), which provides water to Gauteng and the surrounding provinces, remains stable, recording a modest reduction from 97.8% to 97.4%.

This steady performance highlights the department’s consistent management efforts and strategic drought-mitigation initiatives that support reliable water availability ahead of the summer rainfall period.

Water levels at other key dams within the IVRS recorded these changes:

• Grootdraai Dam: Slight decline from 94.2% to 93.0%;

• Sterkfontein Dam: Steady at 99.0%;

• Bloemhof Dam: Decreased from 97.3% to 95.4%.

Dams under the Lesotho Highlands Water Project showed mixed results, with the Katse Dam rising from 97.1% to 97.3%, and the Mohale Dam from 89.8% to 90.3%.

According to the South African Weather Service (SAWS), above-average rainfall is expected across the central interior and eastern coastal regions from October through January.

Although weather conditions may vary, the DWS remains on alert and prepared to implement flood-control measures should substantial inflows occur.

All dam releases will continue to be managed in line with approved operational protocols, ensuring sufficient storage capacity for potential flood events while protecting communities downstream.

As part of its readiness for the upcoming rainy season, the department has reinforced its flood-response and water-management plans through:

• strengthened coordination and decision-making structures;

• expanded real-time monitoring via a broader gauging network;

• closer collaboration with disaster management agencies across government levels.

The DWS reaffirms its commitment to responsible water resource management and maintaining a secure, reliable supply throughout the Integrated Vaal River System.