Pongolapoort dam at 90%, water release imminent

Farmers and residents near the Pongolapoort dam are urged to exercise extreme caution amid preparations to release water from the dam.

This follows weeks of heavy rainfall that have caused several regional dams to exceed their capacity.

“The Pongolapoort Dam has reached 90.8% of its capacity due to continuous inflows, prompting the department to implement the standard operating rule of the dam safety protocol,” said DWS spokesperson Wisane Mavasa.

“Water release is a necessary measure to ensure the structural integrity of the dam and safeguard surrounding communities from the dangers of uncontrolled spillage or dam failure. If the current inflows persist, the department may be required to activate releases by Friday, 14 March,” she said.

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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.

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

“For instance, current inflows may significantly increase, requiring the department to release water before the anticipated time. On the contrary, inflows may significantly reduce, necessitating a halt to the release,” Mavasa said.

“Currently, the inflow slightly exceeds the outflow, and the dam level continues to rise steadily. It is for this reason that communities are notified of the imminent release to ensure preparedness and safety.”

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