The Knysna Municipality in the Western Cape has warned that the town could run out of water within 10 days if dam levels and consumption rates do not improve.
The municipality reported that the Akkerkloof Dam level is sitting at 15% and the Balancing Dam is currently sitting at 9.7%.
“River levels throughout the Greater Knysna area are critical. Immediate and strict water conservation by all residents and visitors is non-negotiable,” said the municipality.
The municipality stated that the lack of rainfall has worsened the water scarcity challenge.
LEVEL 4 WATER RESTRICTIONS
Given the severity of the water shortage, residents are strongly encouraged to limit water usage to below six kilolitres per household per month.
The municipality says as a water-saving measure, showers and external taps at ablution facilities and in public spaces will remain closed.
“We thank the community members who reduced water consumption. Your responsible actions are making a meaningful difference in preserving our limited water resources. Please ensure that all taps are closed when there is no water supply in your area to prevent water loss once the supply is restored,” said the municipality.
WATER AND SANITATION’S INTERVENTION
The Department of Water and Sanitation announced on Sunday, January 11, 2026, that it is working closely with the Western Cape government and other municipalities, which are Water Services Authorities, to safeguard water security and mitigate the impact of the crisis on residents, businesses, and the tourism sector.
“The situation constitutes a serious water security crisis and warrants immediate and collective action from all sectors of society.
“Compounding this pressure are below-normal rainfall patterns, reduced river flows due to drought conditions, and recent incidents of infrastructure vandalism,” said the department.
The department added that Knysna’s water supply system has reached a critical stage and in response to the deteriorating situation, a Joint Operations Committee (JOC), a standing intergovernmental structure, has been activated to oversee coordinated interventions.
“Given the severity of the matter, the department has directed the municipality to urgently explore and activate alternative water sources, including groundwater abstraction, borehole development, and reuse technologies,” said the department.
Community members are urged to report any leaks or incidents of water wastage in their areas.
This is a developing story
