The West Coast and western parts of the Breede River System have especially been susceptible to being “moderately” to “extremely” dry due to the prolonged and lower-than-normal rainfall.
The rest of the province had received normal to above normal rainfall over the same period. In light of the situation, municipalities have developed alternative sources of water supply.
The City of Cape Town as well as other towns, were fortunate to have water security with rainfall having been captured in dams.
The City, Stellenbosch and Drakenstein were some of the municipalities supplied by multiple dams managed by the DWS. This area is referred to as the Western Cape Water Supply System (WCWSS).
With the national department keeping a watchful eye, there was no need for panic just yet, it said on Thursday.
The WCWSS showed a weighted storage and supply of 72% which was considered sufficient to cater for the envisaged short-term water demand.
The groundwater levels in the West Coast and Cape Flats were relatively stable. The department recommended that all municipalities using groundwater, appoint a groundwater management specialist.
Working closely with provincial government, municipalities and other specialists, the national department was committed to ensuring sustainable water security across the province.
It had also implemented short, medium and long-term measures to address and mitigate the potential negative impacts of this restricted bulk water supply.
Groundwater remained a suitable alternative for garden irrigation in residential areas. However, caution needed to be exercised for drinking purposes within an uncontrolled urban setting.
Users are encouraged to make lifestyle changes to reduce water consumption and stretch the water drop, the department advised.
Source: African News Agency (ANA)
