Sluice gates opened to avoid an overflow of Vaal Dam
Media release by the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry
7 February 2006
High levels which came as a result of the current rains have forced officials of the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry to open some sluice gates at of the Vaal Dam to avoid flooding.
The inflow peaked at 1 200 cumec on 31 January 2006 and gradually abated to the 300 cumecs once the dam level reached the 95% mark. The first sluice gate was opened on 1 February 2006.
The dam slowly rose from a level of 98% on Friday, 3 February 2006 and filled to the 100% mark on Sunday, 5 February 2006.
Due to a further rising of the dam level, a second sluice gate was opened yesterday, 6 February 2006 and a third sluice gate was opened this morning, 7 February 2006 at 07:00. It is envisaged to open a fourth sluice gate by 12:00 on 7 February 2006.
The Grootdraai Dam was at 100.3% at 06:30 on 7 February 2006. The present inflow is 60 cumec with an outflow of 125 cumec will be maintained for as long as it is deemed necessary, where after the sluice gates will be adjusted to cater for the need.
The benefit of the outflow has reached Bloemhof Dam which had a level of 9% and has increased to 35% and is expected to increase to more than 50% within the next fortnight.
The increased flow rate poses no threat to people downstream. The river is not expected to flood its banks.
There is no danger to residents downstream of the Vaal Dam and Grootdraai Dam, however, campers and fishermen are warned to take caution.
Contact person:
Amelius Muller
Tel: (012) 336 8746
Cell: 082 807 4341