Vaal Dam closed two floodgates due to a decrease in water levels

The Department of Water and Sanitation’s Hydrological Monitoring and Forecasting System indicates a reduction in water capacity at the Vaal Dam, and as a result, two floodgates were closed on Friday afternoon, 24 February 2023.

VAAL DAM CLOSED TWO FLOODGATES

The water levels at Bloemhof Dam are currently at 112%, and the water discharge remains at 3 800 cubic metres per second.

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In the Orange River, the Gariep Dam is also sitting at around 112%, and the releases into the Orange River, upstream of Vanderkloof Dam, is 1616m3.

Wisane Mavasa, the DWS spokesperson, says the Vanderkloof Dam levels are 110%, and outflow releases are 1678m3/s.

Mavasa says while they closed two floodgates at the Vaal Dam are closed due to a decrease in water levels, residents are still warned to stay on higher ground.

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COMMUNITIES URGED TO STAY VIGILANT

Communities downstream of the Orange and Vaal Rivers System, particularly Lower Orange and Lower Vaal Rivers, must stay vigilant.

The DWS cautions communities residing in the Lowveld and escarpment areas of Limpopo and Mpumalanga for possible heavy rainfalls from early Saturday until Monday (25 to 27 February 2023).

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MORE HEAVY RAINFALL EXPECTED

According to the South African Weather Services, heavy rainfall in the order of 200 to 400mm may result in widespread significant flooding.

Mavasa says the districts in question are Vhembe and Mopani in Limpopo and Ehlanzeni in Mpumalanga.

“The flooding may be catastrophic and cause prolonged and severe impacts, particularly after significant flooding over the Lowveld and escarpment areas such as the Kruger National Park in the last few weeks.”

Wisane Mavasa

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SOUTH AFRICA IS A WATER-SCARCE COUNTRY

The department will continue to monitor the water flow in the affected rivers and dams. They urge communities to remain alert.

Avoid crossing low-lying bridges, overflowing rivers, and streams, and evacuate where necessary if residing near these water courses.

Due to the recent heavy rains in the country, many rivers overflow, and most dams are full and spilling.

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