Two sluice gates have finally been closed at the Vaal Dam
After torrential rainfall last week, the Department of Water and Sanitation was forced to open five of the dam's sluice gates after the storage levels surpassed the capacity mark.
The Department of Water and Sanitation opened a sluice gate at the Vaal Dam on 6 April 2025 after water levels surged due to persistent rain. Picture: @DWS_RSA/X
JOHANNESBURG - Two sluice gates have finally been closed at the Vaal Dam as water levels have subsided and inflows have been reduced.
After torrential rainfall last week, the Department of Water and Sanitation was forced to open five of the dam's sluice gates after the storage levels surpassed the capacity mark.
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Some residents living near the banks of the Vaal River catchment were compelled to evacuate as homes along the swollen banks of the river flooded due to the controlled water release.
Spokesperson Wisane Mavasa says residents should continue to avoid the flooded areas as the river catchment remains flooded.
"The department continues to monitor inflows and water levels in the integrated Vaal River system to ensure that necessary precautions are in place, in line with the dam safety standards and hydrological monitoring systems in order to safeguard the infrastructure and attenuate flood conditions."