South Africa: Further water restrictions, associated protests likely in Johannesburg through early December /update 1

Authorities in Johannesburg have increased the levels of water restrictions indefinitely from Nov. 14; disruptions are likely to persist through at least early December. Decreased water pressure is occurring daily overnight from 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. On Nov. 29, Johannesburg Water, the municipal water utility, announced that reservoirs in Orange Farm and Lawley, Midrand, Soweto, and Sandton remained low; other reservoirs have recovered to satisfactory levels. Localized protests, including road blockages, have been reported in some suburbs, including Claremont, Coronationville, Emmarentia, Melville, Westbury, and Westdene. 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.

Authorities may increase the duration of restrictions in the coming days. 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, or near government buildings, such as the Johannesburg Council Chambers. In the event of protests, increased security and road travel disruptions stemming from blockades are likely. Violence, while unlikely, remains possible.