The Western Cape’s total dam storage fell to 75.7% for the week ending Monday, 17 February 2025, marking a 2.4% drop from the previous week.
Western Cape dam levels on Monday, 17 February 2025
All major dams recorded a decrease in storage levels over the past week.
Theewaterskloof Dam, the province’s largest reservoir, declined from 78.4% to 75.9% (-2.5%). Voëlvlei Dam dropped from 77.1% to 75.3% (-1.8%), while Berg River Dam fell from 79.0% to 76.5% (-2.5%).
Steenbras Lower Dam saw a reduction from 69.4% to 66.8% (-2.6%), and Wemmershoek Dam decreased from 71.5% to 69.0% (-2.5%).
Steenbras Upper Dam recorded a small decrease from 95.2% to 94.8% (-0.4%).
Rainfall Analysis
Rainfall was minimal across the province. Theewaterskloof, Voëlvlei, and Wemmershoek dams received 0.0 mm of rain. Steenbras recorded 2.0 mm, while Newlands registered 0.2 mm. The ongoing dry conditions continue to impact water storage levels.
A look at changes in major dams
| Dam | Capacity (ML) | Storage % on 17 February 2025 | Storage % Previous Week | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Berg River | 130,010 | 76.5% | 79.0% | -2.5% |
| Steenbras Lower | 33,517 | 66.8% | 69.4% | -2.6% |
| Steenbras Upper | 31,767 | 94.8% | 95.2% | -0.4% |
| Theewaterskloof | 480,188 | 75.9% | 78.4% | -2.5% |
| Voëlvlei | 164,095 | 75.3% | 77.1% | -1.8% |
| Wemmershoek | 58,644 | 69.0% | 71.5% | -2.5% |
Cape Town minor dams weekly changes
Minor dams showed varied changes. Alexandra Dam fell from 39.2% to 37.5% (-1.7%), while Lewis Gay Dam dropped from 78.0% to 70.0% (-8.0%). Hely-Hutchinson Dam recorded the sharpest decline, dropping from 18.1% to 10.5%(-7.6%).
Kleinplaats and Land-en-Zeezicht dams remained unchanged at 24.5% and 81.3%, respectively. Victoria Dam fell slightly from 88.5% to 87.5% (-1.0%), while Woodhead Dam saw a minor reduction from 76.2% to 75.9% (-0.3%).
| Dam | Capacity (ML) | Storage % on 17 February 2025 | Storage % Previous Week | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alexandra | 126 | 37.5% | 39.2% | -1.7% |
| De Villiers | 243 | 91.8% | 91.9% | -0.1% |
| Hely-Hutchinson | 925 | 10.5% | 18.1% | -7.6% |
| Kleinplaats | 1,368 | 24.5% | 24.5% | 0.0% |
| Land-en-Zeezicht | 451 | 81.3% | 81.3% | 0.0% |
| Lewis Gay | 182 | 70.0% | 78.0% | -8.0% |
| Victoria | 128 | 87.5% | 88.5% | -1.0% |
| Woodhead | 954 | 75.9% | 76.2% | -0.3% |
With dam levels now at 75.7%, further declines are expected in the coming weeks if rainfall remains low. High daily water consumption is adding pressure to the supply.
Five easy ways to save water and reduce consumption
Here are five effective ways to achieve this goal:
- Fix Leaks Promptly: A small drip from a leaking faucet or pipe can waste a significant amount of water over time. Regularly checking for and repairing leaks in plumbing fixtures, irrigation systems, and pipes can prevent water wastage.
- Install Water-Efficient Fixtures: Using low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets can significantly reduce water usage. These fixtures are designed to use less water while maintaining efficiency, which can lead to considerable savings on water bills and a substantial reduction in water consumption.
- Practice Efficient Watering: Watering lawns and gardens can consume a large amount of water. Watering during the early morning or late evening reduces evaporation and ensures that plants receive the moisture they need. Employing drip irrigation systems and soaker hoses targets water directly to the roots where it’s most needed, reducing waste.
- Use Water-Saving Appliances: Choosing appliances like dishwashers and washing machines that are energy and water-efficient can lead to substantial water savings. These appliances are designed to use minimal water while delivering optimal performance. Running them only when full maximizes efficiency and conserves water.
- Adopt Water-Saving Habits: Simple daily actions can lead to significant water savings. Turning off the tap while brushing teeth, shaving, or washing dishes by hand, and taking shorter showers are practical habits that reduce water use. Additionally, collecting rainwater for garden irrigation and using a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways and sidewalks can further decrease water consumption.
