South Africa: State of natural disaster expires amid ongoing drought June 13

Event

Government officials announced on Wednesday, June 13, that the state of natural disaster originally declared in February 2018 due to severe drought has expired. According to officials, recent heavy seasonal rains, particularly in Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and Northern Cape, have increased water levels in the region. Cape Town authorities said that water levels in dams have increased to around 32 percent compared to 21 percent during the same period in 2017. However, water consumption restrictions remain in place for Cape Town; residents are asked to limit use to 50 liters (13.2 gallons) or less per day.

Context

Despite recent improvements to the situation, Cape Town is continuing to face its worst water shortage of the past 113 years; although the precipitation provides some relief, the parched ground is unable to absorb sustained rains, leading to increased risk of floods. South African authorities declared a state of natural disaster across the country on February 13 due to the ongoing drought in the south and west and the associated water shortage in Cape Town.

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).