Vanderkloof Dam Level Today

Vanderkloof is the second-largest dam in the country and the tallest dam wall in South Africa. It releases Orange River water for irrigation through the Vanderkloof Canal system and supports hydropower generation.

Vanderkloof Dam has a full supply capacity of 3136.9 million cubic metres (Mm3) and sits on the Orange River in Free State. At 98.4% full, the dam currently holds roughly 3086.7 Mm3 of water, equivalent to about 3086739 million litres.

The dam is at or near full capacity. No water supply concerns are expected at this level.

Restriction thresholds to watch: most municipalities begin issuing warning notices when a supply dam drops below 50%, introduce Level 1 restrictions around 40%, and escalate further below 30%. Exact thresholds vary by water authority.

Vanderkloof Dam supplies water to Northern Cape irrigation and Lower Orange towns.

Key supply areas: Northern Cape irrigation, Lower Orange towns.

Is Vanderkloof Dam running dry?

No, Vanderkloof Dam is not running dry. At 98.4% full, the dam has adequate water reserves.

When was Vanderkloof Dam last full?

Based on available data from 2025-10-13 to 2026-04-20, Vanderkloof Dam has not reached 99%+ full within this period. The highest recorded level was 98.4%.

What cities does Vanderkloof Dam supply?

Vanderkloof Dam supplies water to Northern Cape irrigation and Lower Orange towns. Vanderkloof is the second-largest dam in the country and the tallest dam wall in South Africa. It releases Orange River water for irrigation through the Vanderkloof Canal system and supports hydropower generation.

What river is Vanderkloof Dam on?

Vanderkloof Dam is on the Orange River in Free State. Other dams on the Orange River include Gariep Dam.

How is the Vanderkloof Dam level trending?

Vanderkloof Dam is currently at 98.4% full. The level is falling, down 2.0% from last week. The level is similar to the same period last year (101%).