Niël Terblanché
Communities along the lower Orange River in southern Namibia are on alert. Dam systems upstream in South Africa continue to release large volumes of water after heavy rains this season.
Authorities warned of possible flooding in Noordoewer, Aussenkehr, Oranjemund, and nearby irrigation areas, mining sites, and low-lying settlements.
Road users and residents were urged to stay vigilant.
The Oranjemund Town Council also notified all residents and visitors that water levels in the Orange River are rising, and the flow is currently very strong and dangerous.
“Under no circumstances is anyone permitted to enter the river or engage in swimming activities. Access to the river and the surrounding flooded areas is strictly prohibited due to hazardous conditions,” the notice from the town council warned.
The Council urged all residents and visitors to avoid accessing the riverbanks and the river.
“Approaching the riverbank is also prohibited, as the ground is highly unstable and may collapse without warning, presenting a serious safety risk. These measures are in place to protect lives and prevent potential drowning incidents,” the notice read..
With regard to the safety of road users, all residents and visitors are strongly advised to adhere to road closures and avoid accessing flooded areas.
“All residents and visitors are urged to refrain from engaging in any activities along the river and to exercise extreme caution when visiting the beach area at the mouth of the Orange River.
Last week, floodwaters from the Orange River backed up into the Fish River. A bridge crossing the Fish River was completely submerged. The C13 road between Aussenkehr and Rosh Pinah was closed after the river overflowed and covered the bridge and parts of the road.
The Orange River has reached the same level at Upington as it did during last year’s flood. Water levels continue to rise.
One resident of Aussenkehr wrote on social media: “Next to the 2011 flood, this will be our biggest since we have started to operate at Aussenkehr.”
The resident said it usually takes three or more days for water from Upington to reach Aussenkehr.
The current flooding is being described as a 1-in-20-year event. It is less severe than the major floods of 1988 and 1974.
South African water authorities reported the Vaal Dam is at 120.7% capacity. Ten sluice gates are open, releasing 1,881 cubic metres of water per second.
The Bloemhof Dam is at 117.2%, releasing 3,403 cubic metres per second. The Gariep Dam is at 111.9%, with an outflow of 1,534.4 cubic metres per second. The Van der Kloof Dam is at 107.8%, releasing 1,173.1 cubic metres per second.
