The Raubenheimer Dam level, last measured on Monday, 19 January, stood at 66,75%.
The Greater Oudtshoorn region’s average water consumption over the past week increased by one percentage point compared to the previous week and was calculated at 19,6 million litres per day. Only 1 mm of rainfall was recorded in the Raubenheimer Dam’s catchment area during the same period.
Water restrictions have been in place since 12 December, while the scheduled water releases from the Raubenheimer Dam, which began in December 2025 and will continue until the end of February 2026, are expected to contribute to the dam level declining more rapidly than under normal conditions.
On 7 January, the Executive Mayor, Johan Allers, warned that underground water sources are nearly depleted and can no longer ensure a reliable supply.
“We are experiencing an exceptional drought, unlike previous years. Winter rainfall already ceased in June 2025, and there was very little snowfall to recharge underground water sources,” said Allers.
Water restrictions remain at Level 1, but authorities warn that Level 2 will take effect if the Raubenheimer Dam falls below 65%. Residents are urged to continue conserving water as summer demand rises.
The possible implementation of Level 2 water restrictions will be discussed this week by the Executive Mayor, municipal senior management, and all relevant stakeholders. Further communication will follow once a decision has been made.
For Oudtshoorn, Level 2 water restrictions will mean the following measures apply:
- Daily use target: 100 litres per person/day
- Private car wash: Bucket only
- Commercial car wash: With permission only
- Swimming pools: Allowed, must be covered
- Fountains: Not allowed
- Garden irrigation: 2 days/week (6 hours/day)
- Sport fields: Not allowed
- Paving washing: Not allowed
- Roof cleaning/construction: Permission
required - Fine: R1 000
De Rust remains under Level 6 water restrictions. The possible introduction of scheduled rotational water supply in this area will also be discussed this week by the Executive Mayor, municipal management, and stakeholders.
The Greater Oudtshoorn Municipality urges all communities to follow the applicable restriction levels and reduce consumption.
Anyone aware of water wastage, including water used outside permitted times or taps leftrunning unnecessarily, is urged to report it to the municipal control room at 044 203 3000. This information allows the municipality to act swiftly and prevent further wastage. (MALISSA SPIES)