South Africa: Cape Town water rationing in effect Feb. 1 /update 5

Event

Stricter water use restrictions in Cape Town went into effect on Thursday, February 1, amid an ongoing drought threatening the city’s water supply. Residents are now limited to a daily maximum of 50 liters (13 gallons) of water use per person. City officials announced on January 30 that "Day Zero," the day on which municipal water supplies will be turned off for all but essential services, has been moved back from its previously forecast date of April 12 to April 16. Security officials are reportedly devising plans for police and military forces to monitor water distribution points across the city after Day Zero.

Context

Cape Town is currently facing its worst water shortage of the past 113 years. Long lines have been reported at over 200 designated water collection sites across the city. Additionally, protests condemning the government's handling of the water crisis have occurred; further demonstrations are likely. 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.

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).

Additionally, those present in Cape Town are advised to avoid all demonstrations and to anticipate a heightened security presence in the vicinity of public gatherings. ​