The Vaal Dam's water level has significantly decreased by 15.5% over 11 weeks, raising concerns about the dam's future. The dam currently holds 30.8% of its full storage capacity, prompting an expert to explain the expected rate of decline due to evaporation and consumption.
The Vaal Dam ’s water level has plummeted by 15.5 percent over just 11 weeks, with an expert weighing in on what the future may hold for the dam.
“The Vaal Dam falls by around 1-2% per week if there is no good rain in its upstream catchment, due to evaporation and regular consumption. The drop of 15.5% over 11 weeks is within the expected margins,” said Bosman.The current decline appears more dramatic when compared to the same period last year when the dam level decreased by 13.9 percent, falling from 85.7% to 71.8% between September and November 2023.
“If the levels reach 18%, water from the Sterkfontein Dam will be transferred to the Vaal Dam system,” Bosman explained.While the current situation isn’t cause for immediate concern, Bosman has warned it could become dire if rain is further delayed.
Vaal Dam Water Level Drought Evaporation Consumption
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