Department of Water and Sanitation
1Min
South Africa
Nov 27, 2025
The Department of Water and Sanitation has opened three additional sluice gates at the Vaal Dam as sustained rainfall drives water levels above capacity across the Vaal River System.
The Department of Water and Sanitation has opened three additional sluice gates at the Vaal Dam as sustained rainfall drives water levels above capacity across the Vaal River System.
According to the department, the gates were opened in stages on Thursday morning and afternoon, following the reopening of four gates on Wednesday. With ten gates now open, outflows have been increased to regulate rising inflows and prevent overtopping.
DWS spokesperson Wisane Mavasa said at Bloemhof Dam, operations remain unchanged, with outflows holding at roughly 1000m³/s.
Both dams are above 100% due to persistent rain this week, prompting heightened monitoring by officials.
She warned that the increased releases could lead to overflowing riverbanks in downstream areas, particularly the Vaal Triangle, Parys and other low-lying communities.
“The Department appeals to communities along the Vaal River to remain vigilant and monitor rising river levels closely. Farmers and residents must take immediate steps to secure their assets,” Mavasa said.
The department has urged farmers and residents to move equipment, pumps and livestock away from the water’s edge. It said real-time assessments will continue and further updates will be issued as conditions evolve.
