The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has urged Lowveld residents to increase water conservation efforts as dam levels across the region show a slight decline, dropping overall from 98.3% to 98.2%.

While some dams maintained steady water levels, others recorded minor decreases. Buffelskloof, Witklip, Kwena, Primkop, Longmere, and Klipkopjes dams all remained stable, with levels hovering around or just above full capacity – for example, Buffelskloof and Witklip at 100.2%, Primkop at 100.4%, and Longmere at 98.2%.

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Meanwhile, several dams experienced small declines: Blyderivierpoort dropped from 100% to 99.4%, Driekoppies receded slightly from 93.3% to 93.1%, and Da Gama fell from 98.4% to 97.4%. The Injaka Dam’s level decreased from 98.4% to 98.2%, Ohrigstad fell from 76% to 75.4%, and Nooitgedacht dipped just below full capacity from 100% to 99.8%.

The DWS reminded South Africans that the country is water-scarce, making every drop count. Responsible water use and protecting water resources are vital to securing long-term water supply. The department called on the public to continue using water wisely and adopt water-saving habits as a daily practice.