The Makhado Municipality has issued an urgent warning to residents that the Department of Water and Sanitation will be opening some of the floodgates at the Albasini Dam on Thursday, 4 December 2025, from 17:00.
According to the municipality, the controlled release follows recent heavy rainfall that has caused water levels in the dam to rise sharply. The increased outflow is expected to result in a significant rise in the flow of the Luvuvhu River.
Residents living along the river, including farmers, fishermen and herders, have been urged to exercise extreme caution and to keep a safe distance from the riverbanks. Motorists and pedestrians who make use of low-lying or gravel roads near the dam or river have been advised to avoid the area until further notice. The municipality further warned that children and livestock should be kept away from the river due to the risk of sudden water surges.
For further information, residents may contact Ms Jerida Moloto of the Department of Water and Sanitation on 082 321 5247, or Mr Mpho Rathando of the Makhado Municipality on 067 414 4831.