The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has urged communities downstream of the Jozini Dam (Pongolapoort), located in the uMkhanyakude District, in northern KwaZulu-Natal, to remain watchful.
The Department is preparing for an imminent uncontrolled release of water from the dam, now at a storage capacity 97.97% full, due to ongoing rain.
If the current inflow persists, the dam will spill over the uncontrolled spillway by Wednesday,16 April 2025.
DWS also said water release is a necessary measure to ensure the structural integrity of the dam and safeguard surrounding communities from the dangers of dam failure.
It also said the releases are part of Pongolapoort Dam standard operational rules and the overall dam safety protocols on uncontrolled water releases, to maintain dam safety and prevent potential risks associated with overcapacity.
The increased outflow into the Pongola River will raise water levels, potentially affecting low-lying areas, floodplains, low-level bridges, and agricultural activities.
Affected communities live around the dam, including Makhathini Flats (Welcome, Hlazane, Mboza, KwaShukela, Mzinyeni, Skhemelele, KwaLulwane, Bhekabantu, Mamfene, Shemula, Hlokohloko, Madonela, and Ndumo).
The department said it is also liaising with the Lower Pongola Water User Association, regarding an emergency preparedness plan.
The DWS said it would gradually release water, in line with the established flood management protocols, in coordination with the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC), Provincial Disaster Management Centres (PDMCs), and affected local municipalities.
Picture: Royal Jozini