The Department of Water Affairs and Sanitation (DWS) is preparing to possibly release water from the Pongolapoort Dam in Jozini on Friday, the 14th March 2025.
This follows two weeks of heavy rains that filled the dam to its current 90,8%.
The DWS said the decision to release water, is firstly to maintain dam safety and secondly, to prevent risks associated with an overflowing dam.
The DWS also said the procedure is unpredictable, subject to change at any time.
Communities affected by the decision to release or not, are those around Jozini, Makhathini Flats including Welcome, Hlazane, Mboza, KwaShukela, Mzinyeni, Skhemele, KwaLulwane, Bhekabantu, Mamfene, Shemula, Hlokohloko, Madonela and Ndumo.
Residents are advised to stay clear of low lying bridges because the increased flow into the Pongola River, is expected to dramatically raise water levels.
Picture: Royal Jozini