Cape Town is facing increased pressure on its water supply as an intense heatwave drives temperatures up to 42 degrees Celsius. City officials have warned that water restrictions could be introduced earlier than expected if consumption continues to rise.
Dam levels in the metro currently stand at 51.8%, which is 17.5% lower than at the same time last year. Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation Zahid Badroodien said residents need to reduce their water usage to avoid stricter measures before the arrival of winter rains.
“We have seen continuously high water usage since November, and that trend hasn’t changed,” said Badroodien. “With the current heatwave, we are urging residents to be mindful of outdoor water use. If we do not reduce usage now, we may have to introduce water restrictions earlier than anticipated.”
The warning comes as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) reports that a record-breaking heatwave has swept through parts of the Northern Cape and Western Cape. Temperatures in the Namakwa District have exceeded 44 degrees Celsius, while Cape Town and surrounding areas have experienced some of their highest March temperatures in more than a decade.
SAWS Senior Forecaster Stella Nake said the heatwave is expected to persist until Friday before cooler conditions move in.
According to the weather service, temperatures are forecast to drop significantly from Saturday, bringing some relief after several days of extreme heat.
City officials are urging residents to use water responsibly during the heatwave, warning that sustained high demand could place additional strain on already declining dam levels.
VOC News
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