Although reports on the South African drought have not been as frequent over the past few months, the country is technically still experiencing significantly lower water levels. Here’s an update on the water crisis around South Africa.
Western Cape damns have 30% lower water
The Western Cape MEC Anton Bredell confirmed that dams across the province were only 61.4% full compared to last year’s figure of 90.9%. He said that Voëlvlei dam was 69% full, Theewaterskloof dam (53%), Brandvlei dam (57%) and The Clanwilliam dam was the highlight because it is 100% full.
Umgeni has imposed a drought levy
Umgeni Water systems in KwaZulu-Natal whose five dams serve mainly eThekwini and Msunduzi, was at 47.8% and Hazelmere at 53.6% capacity in August. In September, Umgeni announced that a drought levy was being imposed on municipalities it supplies with water.
South Africa urged to change its water model
After last year’s drought, many experts have suggested that this is an opportunity for South Africa to change its water model from a linear water economy to a circular water economy. The Department of Water and Sanitation drafted an infographic showing the comparisons between 2015 and 2016.
South African water use is too high
According to research, South Africans consume water well above global averages, coming in at 280 litres per day per person – compared with the global average of 175 litres per day per person. The Department of Water and Sanitation warned that it would take a while before the water crisis stabilises so restrictions will still be imposed.
Water restrictions to continue
National and local government have imposed a number of tight water restrictions to curb the excessive use of water in some areas. Johannesburg has to drop water use by 15% now or face water cuts from Rand Water while the Caledon River is under a 75% water restriction for irrigation. Households using more than 40 000 litres of water a month will be paying 30% more for their excess. According to chairwoman Matshidiso Hashatse, Rand Water will pump about 3,900 kiloliters a day to municipalities, which in turn distribute to consumers, instead of the usual 4,500 kiloliters.
Drought-like conditions in different parts of South Africa are set to continue until the end of the year. For more updates, visit The Department of Water and Sanitation.
