KNYSNA NEWS - Despite significant upgrades to Knysna's water infrastructure and improved dam levels, residents are urged to conserve water as the summer season approaches, bringing increased demand and the potential impact of El Niño conditions.
The Knysna Municipality said in a statement that Akkerkloof Dam is currently approximately 92% full compared with just 15% at the same time last year.
While the improved water levels offer some relief, the municipality cautioned that water conservation remains essential as pressure on resources is expected to increase during summer.
Level 2 water restrictions remain in place, and residents, businesses and visitors are urged to comply and use water sparingly.
Simple measures such as repairing leaking taps, avoiding unnecessary water use, limiting excessive irrigation and monitoring household consumption can help reduce pressure on the water supply.
Residents are also asked to promptly report burst pipes, leaking connections and damaged water infrastructure to help the municipality prevent unnecessary water losses.
El Niño and the summer heat
In its statement, the municipality also highlighted the potential impact of El Niño, a natural climate phenomenon involving the periodic warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. It influences weather patterns worldwide and can contribute to hotter and drier conditions in southern Africa.
Although its precise local effects vary, residents and visitors are encouraged to prepare for prolonged hot weather and the associated risks of dehydration, heat exhaustion, heatstroke and veld fires.
Precautions include drinking sufficient water throughout the day, avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during the hottest hours and wearing light clothing, hats and sunscreen when outdoors.
Children and elderly people should never be left unattended in parked vehicles, even for short periods. Residents are also encouraged to check on elderly family members, neighbours and other vulnerable people during extreme heat.
Pets should always have access to clean drinking water and adequate shade and should never be left inside parked vehicles.
People should avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak temperatures, be alert to signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and seek medical assistance when necessary.
The municipality also urges caution when using open flames, braais and other potential sources of fire.
With summer approaching, the municipality says responsible water use and awareness of extreme weather conditions remain important in protecting Knysna's water resources and community.
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