Cape Town dam levels stand at 75,7% going into the final month of the hydrological year or rainy season, ending 31 October.

Typically, dam levels need to be 80% or more by the end of the rainy season to avoid water restrictions being implemented. The National Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has the authority to implement water restrictions on all water users of the Western Cape Water Supply System, which is currently under consideration as dam levels remain relatively low.

Other factors considered include current and projected water use for both urban and agricultural users, as well as seasonal weather forecasts.

Current City estimates are that consumption needs to drop by at least 10% less at a household level in Cape Town throughout the upcoming summer season and into winter next year.

‘Proactive water savings remains of utmost importance as dam levels look unlikely to reach the 80% threshold typically applied to avoid water restrictions on the supply system shared by Cape Town, several municipalities and the agricultural sector.

‘Only a coordinated effort by all stakeholders in our shared supply system will have the necessary impact to carefully manage our dam levels going into next winter.

‘We are encouraged by our engagements with neighbouring municipalities, who are all collectively committed to ensuring the necessary water savings. The City continues to closely monitor dam levels, rainfall, and water demand, while awaiting the outcome of DWS’s annual analysis currently underway.  

‘However, our water saving efforts do not need to wait for a final DWS decision on restrictions. By being more aware of our daily usage and reducing unnecessary consumption now, residents, businesses and City teams can help keep our dams fuller for longer and reduce the severity of restrictions should they become necessary,’ said Alderman Zahid Badroodien, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation.

Cape Town’s water status 

The City’s latest 2026 Water Outlook does not indicate an immediate risk to water supply, but the potential for restrictions has increased compared with previous years, particularly if demand continues to grow and rainfall is lower than expected.

Latest dam levels and usage

• Despite recent rain forecasts, dam levels hardly moved, bringing it to 75,7% on Thursday 1 October 2026. This is 16% lower compared to last year this time.
• 895 million litres of water a day was also used by Thursday 1 October, higher than our 860MLD limit.
• Currently, our dam levels will need to last us into next winter, through the expected trend of high peak demand in summer, and without depending on unpredictable rainfall. For context, our dam levels dropped by about 40% over this past summer due to peak demand.

‘Cape Town is a water-scarce city, and using water wisely must remain part of our everyday habits. Residents also rightly expect the City to do its part.

‘City teams are continuing to replace ageing pipes, detect and repair leaks, manage pressure and prioritise repairs to burst pipes. We are also providing treated effluent for irrigation and other suitable uses to reduce demand for drinking water.

‘Alongside this work, we are investing in groundwater, water reuse, desalination and the clearing of water-thirsty invasive alien plants as part of our long-term water resilience strategy. Reducing losses, expanding our water sources and lowering demand are shared responsibilities. These practical steps, together with coordinated decisions across the supply system, will help us protect our water supply while remaining mindful of the costs residents carry,’ said Alderman Badroodien.

Saving water at your fingertips

Some 70% of water used in high volumes is at home, according to consumption statistics. 

Water saving tips: www.capetown.gov.za/savewater

Remember to report burst municipal pipes immediately to the City’s formal channels:

• Call 086 010 3089 (select option 2)
• SMS 31373
• WhatsApp 060 018 1505
• Email water@capetown.gov.za

Please provide an exact location or address and always insist on a reference number.