Residents, particularly in low-lying areas around the Vaal Dam and other riverbanks, have been urged to evacuate due to the escalating flood risk. The persistent rains, which have affected the Free State, North West, and Northern Cape, show no sign of easing as heavy downpours are expected to continue in the coming days.

Since last week, water levels in several dams and rivers in the region have seen a marked increase. Some storage dams have reached full capacity, heightening fears of further flooding. The South African Weather Service has issued a yellow level four warning for severe thunderstorms.

One of the most concerning developments has been the rapid rise in water levels of the Vaal Dam. The Department of Water and Sanitation opened a fifth sluice gate to help manage the rising water levels. Water and Sanitation spokesperson Wisane Mavasa said the increased water flow is primarily due to the ongoing rainfall in the Vaal River catchment area.

Those living or working near the riverbanks, especially in vulnerable areas, have been urged to evacuate immediately to avoid danger.

Following the opening of fifth sluice gate in the Vaal Dam, Northern Cape Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs MEC Bentley Vass warned communities in low-lying areas of the potential for floods.

Vass said the increased water releases could lead to possible overflow at the riverbanks downstream, threatening infrastructure, especially in areas within the 100-year floodline or 100m of the river.

He added that the provincial government has engaged all five district disaster management centres to submit situational reports to the provincial centre.

Some areas have already been inundated with floodwater due to the ongoing heavy rain. Mangaung Metro has been actively coordinating efforts to move people from areas at high risk of flooding, with assistance from various municipal stakeholders.

Metro spokesperson Qondile Khedama confirmed efforts are underway to ensure safe evacuations.

The South African Red Cross Society is also on standby, ready to assist those affected by the floods.

As floodwater continues to rise, local businesses near the Vaal Dam are feeling the impact. Kathy Manten, the owner of Manten Marina, which houses the National Sea Rescue Institute Station 22 on the Vaal Dam, described how the increasing water levels have forced them to move some of their belongings to higher ground.

Manten noted that while such floods have become a regular occurrence – sometimes happening as many as six times a year – it remains a difficult and financially damaging experience.

“It’s difficult, you can’t work, so you’re losing customers. Nobody is going to give you that money back weeks down the line. There will always be some mopping up once the water goes down and repairs of basic infrastructure; it’s just something you have to take in your stride,” Manten said.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg