Water in SA

Water sources, dams, conservation

Water in South Africa

South Africa is a water-scarce country — we get less rainfall than the world average. Our water comes from rivers, dams, underground water and rainfall. Major rivers include the Orange, Vaal, Limpopo and Tugela.

Example

Water Conservation

• Fix leaking taps (1 drip/second = 30 litres/day wasted) • Take short showers instead of baths • Collect rainwater for gardens • Don't leave taps running when brushing teeth Major dams: Gariep (largest), Vaal, Sterkfontein

Note

Remember

SA has unequal water distribution — the east is wetter than the west. Climate change is making droughts worse. Cape Town nearly ran out of water in 2018. Every drop counts!

Key Vocabulary

Water-scarceNot having enough water to meet all needs

DamA wall built across a river to store water

ConservationUsing resources carefully to make them last

DroughtA long period with very little or no rain

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Water-scarce

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