According to the latest figures from 11 July 2025, Cape Town’s major dams are currently 81.3% full. The City of Cape Town, in collaboration with the National Department of Water and Sanitation, is closely monitoring storage levels to determine if any water restrictions will be necessary this winter.
Water security under the spotlight
The Western Cape Water Supply System, which includes several interconnected dams, pump stations, and pipelines, provides water to Cape Town and surrounding towns. This integrated system also supports Overberg, Boland, Swartland, and West Coast agriculture.
“The dam levels are critical for Cape Town’s water supply,” said a joint statement from the City and the National Department.
They explained that consistent monitoring helps authorities respond promptly to seasonal changes and rising water demand.
Key Dams near Full Capacity
While some dams remain slightly below their peak levels, others are already at or above 100%. The Berg River Dam and Steenbras Upper Dam currently store more water than their full capacities, at 100.6% and 100.3% respectively. The Theewaterskloof Dam, the largest in the system, is 77.3%, storing over 480 million litres of water.
“Because each dam size is different, the best indicator of overall dam water levels is the total quantity stored expressed as a percentage,” officials noted.
On 11 July 2025, that percentage stood at 81.3% across the system, an encouraging figure for mid-winter.
Vigilance Despite Encouraging Figures
Despite the relatively high levels, the city urges residents and businesses to use water responsibly.
With dam levels holding steady but rainfall patterns still uncertain, authorities are treading cautiously.
How are you managing your water use?
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