Even though the dam levels have increased, rainfall remains well below the long-term average. Protect our water resources by adhering to water restrictions.
Western Cape, South Africa (25 August 2020) – Total capacity of dams supplying the Cape Metro increased to 88% for the week 17 – 23 August 2020, a 4% rise from the 84% of the previous week.
Consumption for the same period increased by 19 million litres per day from an average of 642 million litres per day the previous week to 661 million litres per day. At the same time last year, dam levels were at 81,7%.
“The downpours of the previous weeks have created a welcome boost to our dams levels. This further recovery of dams is very encouraging, but it is important to note that current capacity is not a result of rainfall alone, but also the sustained reduction in water consumption. We thank our residents for their continued adherence to water restrictions, as this collective effort by Capetonians is playing a significant role in our dams being this full. We ask that residents who are calling for restrictions to be lifted completely, please keep this important factor in mind,” said Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Waste, Alderman Xanthea Limberg.
A decision on restriction levels for the 2020/21 hydrological year will be taken upon review of the rainy season, which ends on 31 October. In consultation with the National Department of Water and Sanitation and other users of the Western Cape Water Supply System, decisions regarding the new hydrological year will take into account all factors associated with the projected sustainability of the resource and continued service provision.
For more information on new water sources, water restrictions (Level 1 currently in place), guidelines around alternative water sources such as boreholes and rainwater tanks, and tariff information, please visit www.capetown.gov.za/thinkwater.
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