The City of Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation Directorate says it has estimated that local household water consumption needs to drop by at least 10% throughout the upcoming summer season and into winter next year.
This comes as Cape Town dam levels are below the recommended 80% threshold at the end of the rainy season. Cape Town dam levels are currently stand at 75,7% going into the final month of the rainy season, ending 31 October. The City says water-saving efforts remain of utmost importance as dam levels look unlikely to reach the threshold.
This would help avoid water restrictions, which the National Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) is currently considering as dam levels remain relatively low. According to the City, the department has the authority to implement water restrictions on all water users of the Western Cape Water Supply System.
Other factors considered include current and projected water use for both urban and agricultural users, as well as seasonal weather forecasts.
“We are encouraged by our engagements with neighbouring municipalities, who are all collectively committed to ensuring the necessary water savings. The City continues to closely monitor dam levels, rainfall, and water demand, while awaiting the outcome of DWS’s annual analysis currently underway,” said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation, Zahid Badroodien
Badroodien, however, says the City’s water-saving efforts do not need to wait for a final DWS decision on restrictions.
“By being more aware of our daily usage and reducing unnecessary consumption now, residents, businesses and City teams can help keep our dams fuller for longer and reduce the severity of restrictions should they become necessary,” added Badroodien
The City’s latest 2026 Water Outlook reportedly does not indicate an immediate risk to water supply, but the potential for restrictions has increased compared with previous years, particularly if demand continues to grow and rainfall is lower than expected.
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