12 Nov 2024 | 11:44 AM UTC
South Africa: Authorities in Johannesburg to implement increased levels of water restrictions, from Nov. 14
Overnight water restrictions between 21:00-04:00 to be implemented in Johannesburg, South Africa, from Nov. 14 due to ongoing shortages.
Authorities in Johannesburg have announced that they were increasing the levels of water restriction indefinitely from Nov. 14. Decreased water pressure will occur overnight between 21:00-04:00. This is to help replenish water reserves, which an ongoing drought, high consumption, and inadequate maintenance of water systems have depleted. The city is also maintaining level 1 water usage restrictions, including the prohibition of garden watering, car washing, and the filling of swimming pools between 06:00-18:00.
Disruptions could include reduced flow rate or shortages. Outages could extend beyond the estimated restoration time. Business disruptions are possible, especially for companies that rely on large quantities of municipal water. Essential services, including hospitals and health facilities, could experience disruptions due to water cuts despite contingency plans. Spontaneous protests are possible in areas affected by water shortages, especially in lower-income areas. In the event of protests, increased security and road travel disruptions stemming from blockades are likely.
Stock up on drinking water and confirm alternative water supplies for business operations during outages or restrictions. Use only bottled water from reputable suppliers for drinking and hygienic purposes. Water pressure and quality may be poor after service resumes; run taps for several minutes before using water. Minimize nonessential water use throughout the outage. Avoid protests, and do not drive through roadblocks that may materialize. Heed instructions from authorities.
South Africa, Gauteng especially, regularly suffers from water shortages due to increasingly erratic rainfall patterns, repeated infrastructure breakdowns, high demand, and alleged sabotage. Recurring power cuts have also prevented freshwater pumps from delivering water to some localities and sewage plants from processing grey water. Authorities have regularly implemented water restrictions to mitigate disruptions.
