Large water storage dams in the Free State, the water of which is used for human consumption and industrial purposes, remain at their peak capacity due to soaking rainfall. The Department of Water and Sanitation’s (DWS) weekly report shows that major dams supplying water to consumers have improved to the 90% and 100% capacity mark.
Most dams were hovering at 80% before and at the start of the festive season. The only two dams below 80% are the Fika-Patso (73.5%) in Qwaqwa and the Allemanskraal Dam (79.6%) near Ventersburg. The Fika-Patso Dam was hovering at 57,7% at the start of the festive period, while the Metsi-Matso Dam improved from 73.4% to its current 100.7%.
The majestic Gariep Dam’s water capacity level is at 105.6%, improving from 87%.
The other dams hovering at 100% are the following: Sterkfontein, Rustfontein, Erfenis, Knellpoort, and Krugersdrift. The Armenia Dam near Hobhouse is currently sitting at 146.6%. The Kalkfontein Dam and Welbedacht Dam are sitting at 96.8% and 95.1%, respectively. These dams improved from 89.0%.
The healthy state of reservoir dams accounts for 94.6% of the province’s overall water level, according to the department.
