23 Feb 2025

Dam levels across the country are receding but flooding remains a concern, states a joint press release from Water Utilities Corporation and National Flood Disaster Response Technical Committee. 

The release says Gaborone Dam continues to spill into Notwane River, with its water level currently at 102.72 per cent, presenting a slight reduction of approximately two per cent from the peak level of 105.19 per cent recorded on Friday. 

The statement explains that while this decline has provided some relief to areas downstream of the dam, which had experienced flooding since Thursday, the situation remains critical. Additionally, the Molatedi Dam in South Africa, which has been spilling since Thursday and reaching a peak level of 134 per cent has resulted in significant inflows into the Madikwe River, a tributary of the Limpopo River. 

The release also explains that Notwane River converges with the Limpopo River just downstream of Ramotlabaki and recent assessments indicate that floodplains near the confluence are already affected. 

The reduced flow of the Notwane River, caused by backwater effects from the Limpopo River, coupled with excessive flows from its tributaries such as the Metsimotlhabe and Thagale rivers is said to have exacerbated flooding in villages along the Notwane River. 

While the water level in most dams is gradually receding, the public is advised that flooding in affected areas is expected to persist due to the cumulative impact of the aforementioned factors. 

The corporation urges the public to remain calm but exercise extreme caution near dam areas, riverbanks and flood-prone zones. “Residents are reminded to adhere to all safety advisories issued by relevant authorities and rescue teams across the country. 

The public is also cautioned to avoid unnecessary travel through affected areas. Further updates will be provided as the situation evolves,” the release says. ENDS