Communities near the Pongolapoort (Jozini) dam are being warned of the imminent release of water from the dam, which may lead to localised flooding.

Zululand Observer reports that this follows weeks of heavy rainfall across the province, which has caused water levels to increase rapidly, exceeding the dam’s capacity.

“The releases are part of Pongolapoort Dam standard operational rules and the overall dam safety protocols on uncontrolled water releases to maintain dam safety and prevent potential risks associated with overcapacity.

“Water release is a necessary measure to ensure the structural integrity of the dam and safeguard surrounding communities from the dangers of dam failure,” says Department of Water and Sanitation spokesperson Wisane Mavasa.

The dam storage capacity is at 97.97% – with the water inflow currently exceeding the outflow.

Mavasa says if the current inflows persist, the dam will spill over the uncontrolled spillway by today.

“It should be noted that inflows are unpredictable and may change at any time.

“For instance, current inflows may significantly increase, resulting in an uncontrolled water release before the anticipated time.

“On the contrary, inflows may significantly reduce, thereby delaying the uncontrolled release,” says Mavasa.

She says the release seeks to maintain dam safety and prevent potential risks associated with overcapacity.

“Water release is a necessary measure to ensure the structural integrity of the dam and safeguard surrounding communities from the dangers of dam failure,” says Mavasa.

Communities in and around Jozini, and Makhathini Flats (Welcome, Hlazane, Mboza, KwaShukela, Mzinyeni, Skhemelele, KwaLulwane, Bhekabantu, Mamfene, Shemula, Hlokohloko, Madonela, and Ndumo) are urged to exercise extreme caution during and after the water release.

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