Potchefstroom – April 6, 2025

An urgent evacuation order has been issued for communities along the Vaal River following a dramatic surge in water levels at the Vaal Dam, which has forced the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) to open five sluice gates in quick succession.

The situation has escalated rapidly, with dam storage levels rising from 107.82% on Saturday to 109.39% by Sunday morning. The current inflow into the dam is approximately 1,000 cubic metres per second (m³/s), and water outflows are being incrementally increased throughout the day—reaching 1,400 m³/s by the late afternoon.

Bloemhof Dam, located downstream, is also experiencing increased pressure, with its storage rising from 103.23% to 106.91% in just a day. The DWS has warned that the cumulative impact of these rising levels will likely cause the riverbanks to overflow, affecting infrastructure and low-lying areas within the 100-year floodline, or about 100 metres from the riverbanks.

DWS spokesperson Wisane Mavasa confirmed that the high-volume water releases are expected to impact downstream areas within the next three to four days, including the Barrage and Bloemhof regions. Communities in the town of Orkney and other settlements near the Vaal River have been advised to evacuate immediately.

“If you're in the affected areas, please evacuate immediately tonight,” a spokesperson urged. “Before you leave, kindly make sure to elevate your electrical appliances as high as possible to avoid damage, and switch off your electricity to prevent any electrical hazards.”

The Klerksdorp Fire Department has echoed these warnings, confirming that the water levels are rising significantly and urging residents to act swiftly to safeguard lives and property.

DWS has also called on residents to remove valuable items, movable infrastructure, and livestock from flood-prone areas, and has requested surrounding communities to remain on high alert, ready to assist if the situation worsens.

This flood event follows heavy rainfall across the Vaal catchment area and has now pushed the Vaal Dam well beyond its capacity. Authorities are closely monitoring developments and have pledged to update the public as the situation unfolds.