Cape Town has activated Level 2 water restrictions after dam levels fell to 38% — well below the seasonal average of 54% — following the driest May in the city’s recorded history.
The City of Cape Town has activated Level 2 water restrictions with immediate effect after the collective level of the six dams supplying the city dropped to 38% — significantly below the seasonal average of 54% for this time of year. The Western Cape experienced its driest May since records began in 1920, with rainfall at just 18% of the long-term average for the month.
Under Level 2 restrictions, residents are limited to 70 litres per person per day, down from the current 105 litres. Garden watering with municipal water is prohibited on all days except Tuesdays and Saturdays, and only before 09:00 or after 18:00. Washing vehicles with hosepipes is banned, and filling swimming pools requires a permit.
Which Dams Are Most Affected?
Theewaterskloof Dam, which supplies approximately 50% of Cape Town’s water, is at 41% capacity. Steenbras Lower and Upper dams are at 33% and 29% respectively. Wemmershoek Dam, which serves the Franschhoek and Paarl areas, is at 44%. Water authorities say that if the current rainfall deficit continues through July, Level 3 restrictions — limiting residents to 50 litres per day — may be required by August.
“We are not at crisis point yet, but we are monitoring the situation very carefully. Cape Town residents showed the world what collective action can achieve during Day Zero. We may need that spirit again.” — Xanthea Limberg, Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation
What Residents Should Do Now
Water authorities are urging residents to fix leaks immediately, install water-efficient showerheads, and harvest rainwater where possible. The City has also activated its groundwater programme, drawing on the aquifer system beneath Cape Town that was developed as an emergency resource during the 2018 Day Zero crisis. This programme can supply an additional 50 million litres per day if needed.