Water crisis
São Paulo's main reservoir system, Cantareira, saw a 0.1% drop in stored volume on January 1, 2026, reaching 20.1%, despite recent rains. This triggered the 'restriction' level, capping water withdrawals at 23 cubic meters per second, supplemented by the Rio Paraíba do Sul. Officials state there is no immediate risk of water rationing.
Iniulat ng AI
In Swellendam, Western Cape, residents are facing Level 3 water restrictions amid dwindling dam levels due to low rainfall. The community has united in conservation efforts as supplies dwindle to critical lows. Local authorities highlight both immediate challenges and long-term solutions.