The Western Cape dam levels have collectively gone above 50% in stored water. This is exciting news for Capetonians and surrounding areas!
The top 6 dams in the Western Cape have reached an average of above 50% which is great news! However, water restrictions must still be strictly adhered to as summer approaches. This learned behaviour of water-wise saving needs to become a permanent mentality for the people of the Western Cape.
Anton Bredell, the local government, environmental affairs and development planning MEC for the Western Cape said that the winter rainfall had provided a big relief.
“We have received a lot of water. That along with the province’s augmentation work over the past three years and the public’s efforts to conserve water has seen us through a very dry period. We want to thank each and every person who has played a part in managing this drought.”
“We are breathing slightly easier but we must make it clear that we are not out of the woods yet. For one thing, 50% is not 100% or even 80% and we are heading to a summer season where demand will increase again rapidly. In addition, the situation in the Gouritz River Catchment area remains serious.”
“Given the present situation in water levels of our dams and the continued long-term winter outlook, we continue to urge the public to do as much as possible to conserve water. In fact, we are urging that the behaviour change we have seen with water usage, must become long-term and permanent moving forward.”
The Western Cape Government believes that the time to save water is when there is still water available! So even with the happy news of rising dam levels. We should remain water-wise and save where ever possible. They have some helpful tips to use at home and work to keep reducing your water usage.
- Only flush the toilet when necessary. Let the yellow mellow at home, work, school, gym, shops, etc.
- Take very short stop-start showers. Wet your body, turn off the tap, soap, then rinse quickly.
- Collect your shower, bath and basin water and re-use it to flush your toilet.
- Wait for a full load before running washing machines and dishwashers. The rinse water from some washing machines can be re-used for the next wash cycle.
- Use a cup instead of running taps in the bathroom or kitchen when brushing teeth, shaving, drinking, etc.
- Defrost foods in the fridge or naturally, rather than placing it under running water.
They have even created a helpful handbook for using grey water, you can read it here. Keep up the great work everyone, a few more rainy seasons and the drought will be booted!
Sources: iol / Cape Town Gov
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