South Africa's Kouga Dam Remains Safe Amid Record Flood Inflows

South Africa's Department of Water and Sanitation said the Kouga Dam is structurally sound and fully operational despite water levels exceeding 120% after heavy rainfall. Peak outflows on 7 May 2026 were estimated at 2,491 m³ per second, equivalent to a one‑in‑50‑year flood, but remained within the dam’s design limits. The 72‑metre‑high double‑curvature concrete arch dam has an uncontrolled spillway capable of discharging more than 6,100 m³ per second, more than double the current outflow.

The department confirmed that the two radial gates are kept closed as a precaution because of Alkali–Aggregate Reaction, which can cause concrete expansion and hinder safe gate operation. Officials urged downstream residents to stay cautious as river levels may rise during spillage, and the department continues to monitor inflows and reservoir behaviour.

At the same time, the Algoa Water Supply System saw a rapid recovery, with Churchill Dam at 115%, Impofu Dam at 92%, Loerie Dam at 119% and Groendal Dam at 72%, reversing a recent drop to 35.6% system-wide storage and improving regional water security.