Dam Levels at 50%: Western Cape urges water conservation following national disaster declaration

Western Cape Local Government MEC Anton Bredell says the province must act proactively to manage its water resources.

This follows the declaration of a national disaster over worsening water security across the country. The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs has officially classified the drought affecting the Western, Eastern, and Northern Cape as a national disaster.

The Western Cape government requested the disaster declaration two weeks ago, after several municipalities warned of looming "Day Zero" scenarios. Provincial dam levels continue to come under pressure and are now sitting at just 50% capacity.

MEC Bredell's spokesperson, Wouter Kriel, says the declaration confirms the seriousness of the situation.

"We need to act proactively and make a concerted effort to manage inside our available water resources now. The disaster declaration will allow for a more focused approach across spheres of government as well as inter-departmental," said Kriel.

Authorities are urging communities to continue conserving water as the situation remains unpredictable.