Cape Town dams: Water levels rise for the fifth week in a row

Another week, another source of unbridled joy for the Cape Town dams. Water levels are on the rise once more in the drought-stricken region.

Over the past week, dam levels supplying the Mother City increased by 4.5%. Seven days ago, the dams were almost 38% full. As on Monday 25 June, they are now at 42.3% of their capacity.

There will also be a midweek update provided on Wednesday.

Cape Town dams: Levels for Monday 25 June

• Theewaterskloof dam – 29.8% full this week (2017: 18.6%. Last week: 26.6%).
• Voëlvlei dam – 38.4% full this week (2017: 19.5%. Last week: 31.4%).
• Bergriver Dam 67% full this week (2017: 35%. Last week: 61%).
• Clanwilliam Dam 57.4% full this week. (2017: 16.3%. Last week: 36.3%).

Just look at that recovery from Clanwilliam. As we reported previously, the dam was only 6% full in May. Now it has almost increased its water levels ten-fold.

These figures are almost double what was recorded this time last year. Recent rainfall and diligent water saving locals have helped turn the tide on day zero.

Anton Bredell is the minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning in the Western Cape. He once again urged caution over the recent figures but was ultimately pleased with where the city is heading.

“The drought is not over and the dams are still quite low, despite the very welcome relief and continued increases. We must continue to adhere to water restrictions and reduce water demand.”

“The lower water usage patterns we’ve been seeing over the past year must be the new normal. Permanent behaviour change that is geared towards the sustainable use of our limited resources must become the new norm.”

Western Cape dam levels

It’s not just the Cape Town municipality enjoying all the watery relief. The Western Cape as a whole has seen a drastic improvement in its water storage facilities.

The provincial dams have also seen a jump of almost 5%. Twelve months ago, they were languishing on just 22.85%.

It’s certainly a cause for celebration, but it will all count for nothing unless Capetonians adhere to the water restrictions currently in place. Stay water-wise in the west, and the miracle of avoiding day zero altogether could soon become a reality.