Nelson Mandela Bay DROUGHT is NOT over

The Department of Water and Sanitation has taken a cautious approach to dealing with the drought in the Nelson Mandela Bay region and the Algoa Water Supply Systems, by partially lifting water restrictions.

Recent and much needed heavy rainfall has resulted in dams in the region filling up with Kouga Dam spilling over for the first time in 8 years. The largest dam in the region, Impofu Dam is currently at over 28% benefiting from Churchill Dam spillovers.

ALSO READ: AT LAST! Nelson Mandela Bay drought could be over

IMPENDING HEATWAVE IN NELSON MANDELA BAY

According to climate experts, there is a strong el nino developing, which is coinciding with hot temperatures and low expected rainfall.

According to the United States Geological Survey, an El Nino describes unusually warm water temperatures or above average surface water temperatures.

ALSO READ: Dam Levels: Cape Town dams OVERFLOWING

“The full impact of the anticipated El Nino effect is not known hence the departments hesitancy to confidently declare that the protracted drought period is over”, says department spokesperson Wisane Mavasa.

In the latest update, the cumulative dam levels is at 73,13%, residents are still urged to use water sparingly and not use excess.

“The Aloa Water Supply is still under threat of a growing demand that exceed yields” says Mavasa.

ALSO READ: Western Cape dam levels at 100% following heavy rainfall

ALSO READ: Dam levels: Water levels rise in drought stricken Nelson Mandela Bay

CURRENT DAM LEVELS

Impofu Dam, has continued to benefit from Churchill Dam over flowing as dam levels continue to rise.

Churchill- 100%

Impofu- 28.46%

Loerie- 100%

Kouga- 100%

Groendal- 100%