The Department of Water and Sanitation released the results of the latest state of reservoirs report on February 11.

According to the report, the Grootdraai Dam continues to decrease slightly, but remains above full capacity. Last week, its levels dropped from 101.1% to 101.0%.

Most dams in the Gert Sibande District also recorded declines in water levels. The Vygeboom Dam declined from 100.0% to 99.1%, and the Jericho Dam dropped from 101.0% to 100.7%. The Westoe Dam declined from 85.8% to 85.7%.

The Morgenstond Dam decreased from 100.7% to 100.0%, while the Heyshope Dam dropped from 100.5% to 100.4%.

The only dam in the district to show positive results was the Nooitgedacht Dam, which increased from 99.6% to 100.3%.

The average dam levels in the district took a slight knock, declining from 99.9% to 99.7%, while the provincial average declined from 100.4% to 100.1%.

“While overall water resources remain satisfactory, the department reminds the public that South Africa is a water-scarce country,” stated Wisane Mavasa, the departmental spokesperson.

He added that water conservation is critical to safeguarding sustainable supply and ensuring long-term water security for current and future generations, and encouraged households to alleviate the demand on municipal systems by practising safe rainwater harvesting during rainy periods.

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