The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has urged residents in Limpopo to remain vigilant and comply with safety measures around dams following heavy rainfall that has caused water levels to rise at 14 of the province’s 19 dams. Several dams, including Nsami, Tzaneen, Modjadji, Luphephe and Dap Naude, are severely overfull, while Albasini and Doorndraai dams are actively releasing water.
DWS spokesperson Wisani Mavasa warned that dams operating above capacity pose unpredictable risks. He called on communities living near dams to report unusual water releases, structural concerns and blocked slipways, and to share warnings with vulnerable households. Residents were also advised not to cross flooded roads, to keep children and livestock away from water, and to be cautious of aquatic animals carried by strong flows.
The department said it is closely monitoring the situation together with provincial and municipal disaster management authorities following a red level 10 warning for heavy rain and flooding in Limpopo and Mpumalanga. Since December last year, the two provinces have recorded 19 deaths linked to severe weather conditions. President Cyril Ramaphosa visited affected areas in Limpopo on Thursday and assured victims of government support.
