The Western Cape’s winter rainfall has brought encouraging news for residents and travellers alike, with dam levels continuing to climb as seasonal rain replenishes reservoirs across the province, according to IOL reports.
Theewaterskloof Dam/Ayanda Ndamane/ ANA Studio
According to the latest figures from the Department of Water and Sanitation, the Cape Town Water Supply System has increased to 77.63% capacity, up from 76.94% the previous week. Across the province, overall dam storage has also improved, rising from 77.97% to 78.84% as steady winter rainfall continues to feed catchments.
Theewaterskloof leads the recovery
The province’s largest dam, Theewaterskloof Dam, has reached 77.78% capacity—a significant improvement compared with 63.06% at the same time last year. As the primary source of water for much of the Western Cape, its recovery is a positive sign heading into the second half of winter.
Several smaller reservoirs are also nearing or exceeding capacity. Steenbras Upper Dam is currently overflowing at 102.17%, while Wemmershoek Dam sits just shy of full capacity at 99.95%, highlighting the impact of consistent seasonal rainfall.
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Strong gains beyond Cape Town
The positive trend extends well beyond the Cape Town metro.
In the Olifants-Doorn water management area, Clanwilliam Dam has reached 96.00% capacity—more than double the 41.42% recorded during the same period last year.
Along the Garden Route, conditions are also improving. Akkerkloof Dam in Knysna has climbed to 41% capacity, supported by active pumping from the town’s balancing dams following recent rainfall.
Conservation still matters
While the latest figures paint an encouraging picture, the Department of Water and Sanitation is reminding residents that water conservation remains essential.
Western Cape Provincial Head Ntombizanele Bila-Mupariwa welcomed the continued rise in dam levels but stressed that the objective is to maximise storage before the dry summer season returns. She noted that water restrictions will only be reviewed as dam levels move closer to full capacity.
Although the province is in a far stronger position than it was a year ago, officials say responsible water use remains key to safeguarding supplies through the warmer months ahead.
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