‘Thunderous’ water levels at Augrabies Falls leads to parts of national park being closed

Amid the surge in water levels at the Augrabies Falls, the South African National Parks (SANParks) on Friday announced the temporary closure of sections of the park for visitor safety.

This includes the game viewing area and the popular picnic site, which features braai facilities and a swimming pool.

At present, only three of the park’s viewing decks remain open.

Dramatic surge in water volumes at Augrabies Falls

According to SANParks head of communications JP Louw, Augrabies Falls National Park has recorded a dramatic increase in water volumes, with the waterfall reaching an impressive flow rate of 3 991 cubic metres per second.

“The current surge is attributed to widespread rainfall across the country, resulting in increased water releases from both the Vaal and Gariep Dams upstream,” explained Louw.

Despite the closures, Louw said the park remains open to visitors.

“The falls are offering a spectacular and thunderous display that is expected to continue for several weeks.

“We encourage guests to take advantage of this rare natural phenomenon.

“The falls are truly a magnificent sight at these volumes,” said Louw.

ALSO READ: Vaal Dam levels drop, while water flow at Augrabies Falls surges

The falls are a major attraction within the park, known for their 145 metre height and the thundering Orange River that powers them. 

The park is also a stop-over for travellers going to or from the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. 

Augrabies is about 120 kilometres west of Upington and 40 kilometres northwest of Kakamas in the Northern Cape. 

Vaal Dam flooding

Meanwhile, extensive damage, amounting to hundreds of thousands of rands, has been caused to properties in Orkney, in the North West, after 10 sluice gates were opened at the Vaal Dam on Friday. The sluice gates were opened to reduce capacity after heavy rains.

Residents in Orkney could spend close to R1 million to repair the damage caused by the flood.

Despite the Department of Water and Sanitation calling for evacuations, some residents have refused to leave the area.

NOW READ: Vaal Dam exceeds 120% capacity after opening of 10th sluice gate