North Coast residents are unlikely to face water restrictions unless the region experiences a prolonged drought lasting more than a year.

Siza Water operations manager Kobus Fourie said current water supplies remain stable, despite below-average rainfall in KwaZulu-Natal in recent months.

“A drought extending beyond one to two years could require additional measures to protect the region’s water resources,” he said.

Hazelmere Dam, one of the region’s main water sources, was about 85% full in August, providing a buffer against prolonged dry conditions.

However, forecasts suggesting a strengthening El Niño pattern, typically associated with hotter and drier conditions in Southern Africa, have raised concerns about the region’s preparedness for another severe drought.

“While drought is always a risk in South Africa, current storage levels remain acceptable and there is no immediate risk of water supply failure,” said Fourie.

Siza Water has significantly strengthened its drought preparedness since the severe drought of 2015 to 2018.

Measures include upgrades to bulk water infrastructure, the replacement of ageing pipelines, improved leak detection systems and increased water storage capacity.

The raising of the Hazelmere Dam wall has also improved the region’s ability to withstand periods of low rainfall.

Despite these improvements, Fourie warned that rising temperatures, increased evaporation, growing water demand and losses through leaking infrastructure could threaten long-term water security.

The duration and severity of any future drought, summer rainfall and the effectiveness of water conservation efforts will determine how long existing supplies can sustain the region.

He said Umngeni-Uthukela Water has also indicated that there is no immediate risk of supply failure, although restrictions and other interventions may become necessary if a drought persists for more than one to two years.

Siza Water continues to monitor dam levels, rainfall patterns and water demand in collaboration with Umngeni-Uthukela Water, Department of Water and Sanitation and iLembe District Municipality.

The company also maintains emergency response plans to manage possible water shortages.

Fourie said further investment was needed to strengthen long-term water security, particularly through faster implementation of additional water supply schemes, continued infrastructure upgrades and measures to reduce water losses.

“While current water resources remain stable, Siza Water encourages all consumers to continue using water wisely as part of a shared commitment to preserving regional water security,” he said.