CAPE TOWN – The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) in the Western Cape is calling on residents to maintain water-saving habits despite recent rainfall that has marginally improved dam levels across the province.
According to the latest data released by the department, the Western Cape Water Supply System (WCWSS) now stands at 62.79%, reflecting a 2% increase from last week’s 60.71%. Officials note this continues a pattern of steady 2% weekly increases over the past three weeks, attributed to recent cut-off lows and cold fronts in the region.
“We have been getting an increase due to the cold fronts currently experienced. However, residents must continue to use water wisely to ensure long-term sustainability,” said Western Cape Provincial Head of DWS, Mrs. Ntombizanele Bila-Mupariwa.
Residents must continue to use water wisely to ensure long-term sustainability.
The Theewaterskloof Dam, the largest reservoir in the WCWSS, remains steady at 61% capacity, while other dams within the system are showing slow but consistent improvements.
Despite these positive developments, the department emphasizes that sustainable water usage remains critical for the province’s water security.
“We continue to appeal to all residents, businesses, and industries to reduce unnecessary water consumption and adopt water-saving habits,” Mrs. Bila-Mupariwa added.
The department has committed to ongoing monitoring of water resources throughout the province and will implement necessary measures to safeguard these critical supplies.
Water conservation advocates point out that while the recent 2% increases are encouraging, the overall system level of 62.79% still warrants caution, particularly as the region faces ongoing climate uncertainties.
The DWS will continue to provide regular updates on dam levels and water conservation requirements as the situation evolves.
Current state of catchment areas:
Western Cape state of dams: 57,88% – 66,89% (2024)
City of Cape Town: 62,79% – 64,92% (2024)
Berg River catchment: 65,23% – 69,58% (2024)
Gouritz catchment: 71,20% – 97,68% (2024)
Olifants ctchment: 32,45 – 69,02% (2024)
