Flood warnings have intensified as more sluice gates were opened at Vaal Dam to manage dangerously high water levels, leaving downstream communities like Bloemhof under escalating threat.
According to Wisane Mavasa, spokesperson for the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), Bloemhof Dam was recorded at 117.19% capacity as of Monday morning, driven by heavy inflows. With more rain forecasted, outflows from the dam may be increased further if necessary.
“The DWS continues to monitor inflow water levels in the Integrated Vaal River System (IVRS) to ensure necessary precautions are in place in line with dam safety standards and hydrological monitoring systems to safeguard infrastructure and attenuate flood conditions,” said Mavasa.
Residents in Bloemhof and surrounding areas are once again being forced to uproot their lives as they brace for potential flooding. Many locals are relocating belongings and seeking safer ground, fearing a repeat of previous devastating flood events.
Authorities are urging communities living along riverbanks to stay alert, monitor updates closely, and adhere to evacuation notices if issued.
