Residents urged to reduce non-essential water use

The City of Cape Town has urged residents to reduce their non-essential water consumption, as daily usage has exceeded the target by more than 50 million litres per day.

The target of less than 975 million litres per day (MLD) was set for the summer season to mitigate the risk associated with below-average or unpredictable rainfall during 2026, and to maintain a reliable supply.

But the City says they noticed excessive water usage over the past few weeks, and as of today, 31 December 2025, the average water usage stands at 1 025MLD, with the city’s dam levels at 70,5%.

Currently, the City’s main supply dams are 19,2% lower than last year at this time.

The City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation, Councillor Zahid Badroodien, says as a city we have collectively and consistently been using over 1 000 million litres of water daily for the last few weeks.

“While there is no immediate reason for concern, all Capetonians, visitors and businesses are encouraged to carefully manage their water use over the coming months.”

He says early and sustained reductions in water use help protect water security, reduce the risk of sudden restrictions, and ensure that sufficient reserves are available should rainfall in 2026 be below average.

“Adjusting water-use habits now across households, businesses and the tourism sector will help build resilience against climate-related shocks and safeguard water supplies.”

Through the City’s New Water Programme, the Metro is also actively securing new water from reuse, desalination and groundwater. But Badroodien emphasises these investments take time, which is why every Capetonian must make water-wise choices today.

Tips for saving water:

Take short, stop-start showers or small baths. The maximum flow rate of new and replaced showerheads may not exceed seven litres.
Wash more with less, for laundry and dishes. Only wash clothes and dishes (pots, cups etc) when really needed. Washing and spot-cleaning can use less water.
Turn off taps and hoses when not using the water.
Only water gardens before 09:00 or after 18:00 to avoid evaporation losses.
Keep summer fun water-wise. Use water mindfully for children’s play and cooling. E.g. Use a wet cloth to cool down hot skin, and avoid wasteful spraying of water.
Swim, cover, save, repeat. Built-in and fold-away pools must be covered when not in use, to prevent up to 95% of evaporation losses. Recycle the backwash, and top up with rainwater or alternative water where possible.