With Gauteng experiencing limited rainfall, Tshwane enforces water restrictions to combat high water consumption.
As Tshwane residents brace for a week with little to no rainfall, officials are urging residents to reduce water usage to prevent future shortages. With warm and windy weather forecasted, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has indicated cooler temperatures but limited precipitation across the region. The City of Tshwane is particularly concerned about rising water consumption, warning that persistent high demand could lead to water shortages during the coming summer months.
Limited Rainfall Forecasted for Gauteng
SAWS forecaster Amukelani Mkhari reports that Gauteng will see a slight temperature drop in the coming days, though no rain is expected. Conditions are anticipated to be warm to hot, with cooler weather returning by midweek. This comes on the heels of a spring cut-off low over the weekend that brought strong winds and heavy rain to the Cape provinces but spared Gauteng any significant precipitation.
City of Tshwane Appeals for Reduced Water Consumption
City of Tshwane spokesperson Selby Bokaba has emphasized the need for residents to adhere to existing water restrictions, warning that punitive measures may be enforced for non-compliance. He noted that Tshwane’s reservoirs are under pressure, with demand exceeding the city’s licensed water allocation. Rand Water currently pumps 800 million litres per day to Tshwane, surpassing the licensed amount by approximately 18%.
According to Bokaba, reservoirs in high-demand areas—such as Mabopane, Akasia, Atteridgeville, Hammanskraal, and Soshanguve—are particularly strained. He cautioned that continued overuse could lead to critical shortages as the weather remains hot and dry.
High Consumption Threatens Water Reserves
Bokaba cited key areas where consumption continues to exceed supply, including Mooikloof, Constantia, and other parts of Tshwane. With the city drawing more water than allocated, Tshwane’s water storage facilities risk depletion if conservation measures are not heeded. Residents are encouraged to limit water usage for non-essential activities, such as lawn watering, pool filling, and car washing, to preserve available resources.
As Gauteng residents face ongoing dry weather, Tshwane’s city officials reiterate the importance of conserving water to safeguard the region’s water reserves. With no significant rainfall in sight, local communities must act collectively to ensure sustainable water availability throughout the summer.
Also read: Load Reduction Schedule for 28 October – 3 November 2024
