GIYANI - A Limpopo dam that has struggled with drought for decades is finally spilling over.
The N’waManungu Dam, also known as the Middle Letaba, has reached 105 percent of its capacity for the first time in 26 years.
The dramatic rise comes after weeks of above-average rainfall in northern Limpopo, pushing several dams in the region to full or even above-capacity levels.
Since its completion in 1984, the dam has only reached full capacity three times, the last in 2000.
READ: Schools in north-east Limpopo remain closed after heavy rains
Just at the end of December 2025, the dam was a mere 8.3 percent full, after years of extremely low levels.
But relentless rains since January pushed levels to nearly 90 percent, and now it has surged past the 100 percent mark.
The Department of Water and Sanitation says the dam has a storage capacity of 171.93 million cubic metres and has received 150mm of rainfall over just four days.
While the overflowing dam brings a welcome relief after decades of drought, Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba has warned that the surge poses a threat to nearby communities, some of which were spared during January’s floods.
READ: Disaster teams deployed as floods batter Limpopo, Mpumalanga
The South African Weather Service has issued level 4 and 2 warnings across the province, cautioning of flooding and possible displacement.
Department spokesperson Wisane Mavasa said: "While the spilling dam is welcomed and brings relief after years of low levels, it is important for the public to understand what this means for water supply."
Mavasa added that the increase is positive for the area, boosting raw water availability and creating a strategic buffer for water security.
Authorities are working to ensure communities remain served and have urged people to stay away from dam walls and spillways.