Local water supplies have taken a hit over the past week, with Middelburg Dam dropping below full capacity from 100.6% to 97.6%.

The drop forms part of a broader decline across all listed dams in the Nkangala District, according to the latest State of Reservoirs report released by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) on September 21.

Nearby reservoirs across the district also recorded minor drops over the same period: Witbank Dam dropped from 99.3% to 99.0%, Loskop Dam dropped from 100.6% to 100.3%, and Rhenosterkop or Mkhombo Dam decreased from 100.5% to 100.2%.

Department urges water conservation as dam levels dip

DWS spokesperson Wisane Mavasa said the Nkangala District’s average dam levels dipped from 100.4% to 99.9%, while the surrounding Olifants Water Management Area dropped slightly from 100.1% to 99.7%.

“In contrast, the broader Mpumalanga province saw a minor overall increase in its average dam levels, rising from 98.7% to 99.3%, largely bolstered by gains in the Gert Sibande District, up from 97.0% to 98.7%,” Mavasa said.

“With an El Niño weather pattern on the horizon, officials are urging Middelburg residents to take immediate steps to cut back on unnecessary water use,” Mavasa said. “The department reiterates the call for intensified water conservation efforts, especially as South Africa is a water-scarce country.”

Residents urged to repair household leaks

She urged the public to be responsible water users and use available water wisely and sparingly to ensure a sustainable supply and water security for all.

“Every drop saved today contributes to safeguarding water availability for current and future generations,” she added.

Local households are encouraged to inspect their properties for leaks and repair them without delay.

Mavasa added that any visible leaks on municipal bulk pipelines should be reported immediately to local water service authorities to help protect the town’s water supply.