Kariba —Lake Karibais witnessing a significant decline in water levels, closing at 478.77 meters as of August 5, 2025 This marks a stark contrast to last year, with current levels corresponding to about 22.88% of usable storage capacity, a notable increase from just 10.35% during the same period in 2024 “The water level inLake Karibais steadily declining, mainly due to reduced inflows from the upper catchment,” stated the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) “This seasonal drop is normal for this time of the year and is expected to continue until the onset of the next rainy season.”
Lake Kariba, a crucial reservoir formed by the Kariba Dam along the Zambezi River, serves as a lifeline for both Zambia and Zimbabwe, providing essential water for hydropower generation and local communities
The dam is designed to operate between 475.50 meters and 488.50 meters to ensure optimal hydropower production While current water levels remain within the operational range, they highlight ongoing challenges regarding water availability and the sustainability of hydropower generation in the region Experts warn that the steady decline in water levels is part of a broader pattern influenced by climate variations, changing rainfall patterns, and increasing water demands Environmental analysts emphasize the need for sustainable water management practices to address these challenges
“As climate change continues to impact weather patterns, it is crucial for both governments and communities to adopt strategies that promote water conservation and efficient usage,” said Dr Miriam Chikanda, a water resource management expert The decline in water levels not only affects electricity generation but also poses risks to agricultural activities and the livelihoods of those who depend on the lake’s resources Farmers in the surrounding areas have already reported challenges in irrigation, prompting calls for immediate action to mitigate the impacts of water scarcity
As the region looks ahead to the next rainy season, stakeholders remain hopeful that increased rainfall will replenish the lake However, the ongoing trends serve as a stark reminder of the importance of proactive measures in managing the precious water resources of Lake Kariba for future generations Your email address will not be published.Required fields are marked*
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment Source: Gemnation
All Zim News
All Zim News is a central hub for all things Zimbabwean, curating news from across the country so no story is missed
Alongside aggregation, our team of nationwide reporters provides real-time, on-the-ground coverage Stay informed and connected — reach us at admin@allzimnews.com.
Source: Gemnation
