Issued by: Department of Water Affairs and Forestry
28 DECEMBER 1995
Prof Kader Asmal, MP, Minister of Water Affairs and Forestry has announced that some of the crest gates of Vaal Dam will be gradually opened as from 11:00 today. Although Vaal Dam is not yet full and stands at 88,3% this morning, space must be created for the large volume of water which is on its way.
Releases will be made ad follows:
28/12 11:00 2 gates 150 m3/s 28/12 15:00 4 gates(+2) 320 m3/s 29/12 08:00 6 gates(+2) 580 m3/s 29/12 12:00 8 Gates(+2) 800 m3/s
The release will not exceed the carrying capacity of the river bed, i.e. it will be less than 1 000 m3 per second. There is no danger in Vereeniging that property will be flooded.
The public is cautioned to be aware of rising water levels. The Vaal River should not be used for recreational purposes. Pumps and boats should be moved to higher ground.
Care should also be taken not to cross low water bridges that is topped by a flow of about 50 cm of water since it can be dangerous.
According to this release scenario, Vaal Dam should reach 100% on 30 December 1995. It is expected that the dam level will rise to a maximum of about 104% on 2 January 1996. Vaal Dam has a flood absorption capacity of 26%, i.e. the dam will not overtop the crest gates before the total dam capacity reaches 126%. It must be noted that the Klip and Suikerbosrand Rivers could deliver additional water if it rains in Johannesburg or Heidelberg.
The Department of Water Affairs and Forestry will monitor the situation constantly and will keep the public informed of further possible changes in the water levels.
Enquiries: Mr H Smit, Regional Director: Highveld Region Tel: (012) 672-2880 Mr S van Biljon, Director: Hydrology (012) 299-2707