GQEBERHA – Nelson Mandela Bay’s full dams provide an opportunity to address water losses ahead of summer, the Business Chamber says, with more than 60% of water being lost through the system.

Citing the South African Weather Service’s latest seasonal outlook, the Chamber said there is a high likelihood of below-normal rainfall and above-normal temperatures between November and January 2027.

The Chamber said the current water levels provide a critical window to address water losses and infrastructure problems before demand increases.

Water losses remain a concern

Chamber chief executive officer Denise van Huyssteen said the full dams should not create a false sense of security.

“The fact that our dams are full is positive, but it should not create a false sense of security,” she said.

“If we are heading into a hotter and drier summer, we need to use this window to address the water that is already being lost. Losing more than 60% of our water through the system is a vulnerability we cannot afford to ignore.”

The Chamber said reducing water losses should include fixing leaks, addressing water billing issues and maintaining and upgrading infrastructure.

It also called for stormwater drains and canals to be cleared and maintained.

Storm and fire risks

While below-normal rainfall is anticipated, the Chamber said the National Disaster Management Centre’s Seasonal Hazard Profile has identified the potential for cut-off low-pressure systems during September and October.

These could bring heavy rainfall exceeding 50mm, flash flooding and cold conditions.

The Chamber said stormwater infrastructure therefore needs to be clear and functional ahead of potentially intense rainfall.

Strong wind events could also increase fire risks, with Nelson Mandela Bay identified as particularly exposed to windstorms during spring.

“Preparedness means dealing with infrastructure vulnerabilities before they become emergencies,” Van Huyssteen said.

Fire hydrants get attention

A 12-month fire hydrant project led by Supporting Fire Services South Africa and implemented through the Chamber’s Risk Management Desk is also under way.

So far, 336 hydrants have been rehabilitated and 109 markers painted. A geolocation and monitoring system is being used to improve visibility of the hydrant network.

Seven YES participants are involved in the project, with support from City Paint and Tool, Bay Fire Safety Solutions and the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s Water and Fire Department.

Claire Lötter, head of Supporting Fire Services South Africa, said functioning hydrants become increasingly important as conditions become hotter and drier.

“Fire resilience starts well before a fire breaks out,” she said.

“When conditions become hotter and drier, the margin for error becomes smaller, making basic infrastructure such as functioning and accessible fire hydrants even more critical.”

The Chamber is also using data and spatial mapping to identify areas vulnerable to flooding and fire, while working with weather, disaster management, municipal and emergency-response stakeholders.

It urged businesses to review water contingency plans, assess fire risks and ensure their continuity plans are ready for the summer months.

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