South Africa warns of water disruptions in Gauteng and Cape Town

Rand Water has warned that taps across Gauteng could run dry as Eskom carries out critical winter maintenance on its Palmiet and Zuikerbosch power sites from 29 May to 17 July 2026. The work will require switching off pumps, affecting municipalities and direct customers in Johannesburg, Tshwane, Ekurhuleni and many surrounding towns, as well as industries such as mines and airports. Rand Water issued a 21‑day notice and Joburg Water has also alerted residents to the expected supply interruptions.

In Cape Town, the City of Cape Town has urged residents to cut water use after recent storms and flooding introduced mud and sediment into the Wemmershoek and Theewaterskloof dam systems. The increased turbidity forced treatment plants to operate at reduced capacity, prompting warnings to boil discoloured water and to limit non‑essential consumption while the network remains under pressure.