South Africa: Cape Town may run out of water by mid-April /update 2

Event

Cape Town may run out of water for municipal use as soon as mid-April due to an ongoing drought. According to revised forecasts, the city may reach "Day Zero" as soon as April 21 or 22. On “Day Zero,” municipal water supplies will be turned off for all but essential services. Current restrictions have already reduced water usage to 87 liters (23 gallons) per day. Long lines have been reported at over 200 designated water collection sites across the city. City officials are still searching for a permanent solution to the water crisis. Continued water rationing is expected in the coming weeks in Cape Town and surrounding areas in Western Cape province.

Context

Cape Town is currently facing its worst water shortage of the past 113 years. Western Cape province first declared a drought disaster in May. Water restrictions have been in place in Cape Town since 2005, but have become increasingly strict since December 2015. Authorities are also on guard against an increased risk of wildfires in the region due to the ongoing drought.

The southern African region has been experiencing severe droughts for almost three years, as a result of the devastating effects of the climatic phenomenon El Niño. The UN estimates that over 40 million people have been affected by the drought, which has also resulted in the decimation of crops and water resources, leaving millions dependent on aid. While areas such as northern South Africa, parts of Mozambique, and Zimbabwe have benefited from heavy rainfall this year, other areas, including the region around Cape Town, remain seriously affected by low precipitation levels.

Advice

Individuals in Cape Town and other drought-stricken areas are advised to conserve water, stock up on bottled water, keep abreast of the situation via local media outlets, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. water rationing measures, details available here).​