Vaal Dam opens fifth sluice gate as water levels surge

Zuko Komisa

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has activated a fifth sluice gate at the Vaal Dam, responding to a rapid surge in water levels caused by persistent rainfall in the Vaal River catchment area. This action, taken on Sunday morning, follows the opening of a fourth sluice gate just 24 hours prior.

The dam’s water storage, which stood at 107.82% on Saturday, has climbed to a concerning 109.39% as of this morning.

Consequently, outflows have been increased from 550 cubic meters per second (m³/s) to nearly 700 m³/s, while inflows into the dam are currently registering at a significant 1,000 m³/s.

The impact of the heavy rainfall is also evident at Bloemhof Dam, where storage levels have risen from 103.23% to 106.91%. The DWS has implemented a staggered release strategy for Bloemhof, with outflows incrementally increasing from 1,000 m³/s to 1,400 m³/s throughout the day.

“The increased outflows from the Vaal Dam are expected to reach the barrage within approximately six hours, and Bloemhof Dam within three to four days.

“This will inevitably result in rising water levels in both dams and the river, leading to potential overtopping of riverbanks,” a DWS spokesperson stated.

The department has issued a warning to residents and businesses located in low-lying areas downstream, emphasising the heightened risk of flooding. “The increased water releases from the five sluice gates could lead to significant overflowing of riverbanks,” the spokesperson cautioned. “Infrastructure situated in these vulnerable areas may be affected.”

Residents are advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions as water levels continue to rise. Authorities will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as needed.

Point of View with Phemelo Motene spoke to Ngwathe Local Municipality Mayor, Victoria De Beer-Mthombeni on the latest developments.