Watch: Senteeko Dam spillway erosion raises collapse fears
The Department of Water and Sanitation has warned that the Senteeko Dam near Barberton may fail without warning, urging immediate evacuation.
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) is warning the public that Senteeko Dam near Barberton is at risk of imminent failure.
According to Lowvelder, the dam, owned by the Shamile Communal Property Association, is used for irrigation purposes.
Emergency assessment confirms severe damage
According to DWS spokesperson Wisane Mavasa, an emergency safety assessment conducted by the department’s dam safety office confirmed that the spillway structure has suffered severe and irreversible deterioration, including advanced erosion and undercutting, leading to structural instability.
Evacuation directive for downstream communities
“The dam is collapsing, and failure may occur without warning. An uncontrolled release of water is likely and poses an immediate and serious threat to downstream communities, infrastructure, and the environment. All persons residing or operating downstream of the dam are instructed to evacuate immediately and to comply with all directives issued by disaster management authorities and emergency services,” she said.
Public access restricted
Mavasa added that public access to the dam site is strictly prohibited.
Emergency interventions currently in place are temporary risk-reduction measures only and do not prevent full or partial failure of the dam structure.
DWS response and updates
“The DWS is co-ordinating response actions with relevant authorities and will issue further updates as required. The protection of life remains the DWS’s highest priority,” she said.
Mavasa concluded that areas from the dam, the Barberton valley, up to Low’s Creek will be most affected.
Avoid river crossings
Members of the public are requested to avoid areas near the Suidkaap and De Kaap rivers, especially river crossings.
Furthermore, the DWS urges the public to share only verified information.
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