Vaal Dam Opens Sluice Gates As Levels Surge

Vaal Dam authorities opened five sluice gates today as rising inflows pushed the reservoir above 100 percent capacity. The Department of Water and Sanitation increased releases from about 60 cubic metres per second to roughly 700, warning residents to avoid rivers and low-lying bridges as flooding risks rise across Gauteng and nearby provinces.

Hydrology data shows the Vaal Dam at about 109% with more rain expected. Communities downstream are on alert, with officials advising people to stay prepared for possible evacuation and to follow local safety instructions as conditions evolve.