Overstrand Municipality (OM) is preparing for a hotter, potentially longer and more challenging fire season as forecasts point to a strong El Niño weather pattern.
Warmer and drier conditions are projected to persist across the Western Cape for between nine and 18 months.
In light of this, the municipality has urged residents to use water wisely and landowners to take preventative measures against veld fires ahead of the expected summer conditions.
Wildfire Warning
Overstrand municipal manager Edward Jantjies said warmer weather could increase water consumption while drier conditions could heighten the risk of wildfires.
Landowners, farmers and businesses have been encouraged to clear alien vegetation, maintain firebreaks where required and ensure firefighting equipment is serviced and ready for use.
Dam Levels
Despite concerns about potentially dry conditions, OM said all dams across the Overstrand remained close to full capacity and that no water restrictions were currently in place.
Following the Heritage Day storm of September 2024, De Bos Dam’s water level currently stands at 99,2%. The storm initially washed large amounts of silt down from the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, and a subsequent survey confirmed the dam’s current capacity at 5,57 million kilolitres.
Water Conservation
Residents have nevertheless been urged to conserve water by fixing leaks, taking shorter showers and limiting garden irrigation. Under the existing Water Services By-law, irrigation is prohibited between 09:00 and 17:00 to reduce water loss through evaporation.
Diversifying Supply
The municipality is continuing efforts to diversify its water sources. Plans for a seawater desalination plant are progressing, and groundwater augmentation projects are ongoing in Hermanus and Pearly Beach.
Fire Readiness
OM said it was monitoring fire and water conditions as it reviewed and strengthened its preparations for the summer months. Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management is working with the Greater Overberg Fire Protection Association (goFPA) and other response agencies to strengthen preparedness, co-ordination and information sharing.
