Expert says an earlier warning may have lessened impact of Vaal River flooding
Rising water levels from the overflowing Vaal Dam have wreaked havoc to homes and businesses in low-lying areas.
On Sunday, 6 April 2025, the Department of Water and Sanitation opened a fifth sluice gate at the Vaal Dam after water levels rose to 106%. Picture: Simphiwe Nkosi/EWN
JOHANNESBURG - As homes along the swollen banks of the Vaal River continue to flood, an environmental expert said that an earlier warning may have lessened the impact.
Rising water levels from the overflowing Vaal Dam have wreaked havoc on homes and businesses in low-lying areas.
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At the weekend, the Water Department opened a fifth sluice gate after the dam surged to 106% capacity, raising the risk of localised flooding.
Panicked residents and business owners are bracing for potential damage, similar to the destructive floods seen in 2023.
Many believe the decision to open a fifth gate came too late, a view shared by environmental expert Richard Meissner.
"I do not see a disaster at this moment. They could have issued it earlier, but they react based on the data they receive - the telemetrics from the dam, and the volume of water moving through the gates or over the wall. But going forward, an early warning system could make a difference."
With water levels still high, all five gates remain open, and the threat of further flooding still looms.