Mdloti River water levels expected to rise

Officials at uMngeni-uThukela Water have begun releasing water from the Hazelmere Dam.

The water levels at the dam are at 85%, due to heavy rains over the last few days.

"For these reasons, Umngeni-Uthukela water which manages this dam on behalf of the department of Water and Sanitation, has taken a decision to release water on an emergency bases in order to reduce dam level, to comply with set operating rules," says the water board's Siyabonga Maphumulo.

"Water release from Hazelmere makes its way to the Umdloti river, causing it to rise significantly."

"These rivers swells can and do pose a risk of drowning or getting washed away for people attempting to cross the river."