CAPE TOWN - The City of Cape Town has warned residents to use water sparingly as dam levels decline and consumption continues to rise.
The City said dam storage levels currently stand at 62.2 percent, while daily water usage has again peaked, reaching 1,062 million litres a day (MLD).
"Lower annual rainfall last year resulted in reduced inflows to dams, placing increased pressure on the City’s water supply system," the City said in a statement.
READ: City of Cape Town warns residents of possible water disruptions
"While taps are not at risk of running dry at this stage, continued high water use could rapidly change the situation and result in restrictions unless consumption is brought down urgently."
Residents have been urged to reduce unnecessary water use at home, in industry and agriculture, and in workplaces.
"We can’t afford to be complacent. We must closely keep track of consumption indicators on a weekly basis," said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation, Councillor Zahid Badroodien.
Badroodien said the City is implementing several measures, including resolving reported pipe bursts and leaks through official channels.
Since the drought, the City has invested in upgrading ageing water pipes, improving pressure management, fixing leaks faster and strengthening metering across the water supply network.
"The City is also actively progressing with strategic plans for Cape Town’s new water supply to build our water-secure future.
"In the long term, to reduce dependency on rain-fed dams, Cape Town plans to add new water sources such as desalination and water reuse from 2031," Badroodien said.
Cape Town's dam levels are at 62.2%, 18% lower than last year. To avoid restrictions, let's work together to save water at home and in our industries. Report burst pipes and leaks immediately. Every drop counts! Learn more: https://t.co/Ye5H3rJCcZ pic.twitter.com/I1Tmquhm3p
— City of Cape Town (@CityofCT) January 28, 2026