The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has issued an urgent safety warning to boaters and recreational users at Hartbeespoort Dam, where rapidly expanding water hyacinth is creating hazardous and potentially life-threatening conditions.
Large sections of the dam are now covered by dense mats of floating hyacinth, and authorities say the situation is deteriorating quickly as summer growth accelerates.
Shifting winds are pushing thick vegetation across the water at speed, blocking once-clear passages and trapping watercraft with little warning.
‘Rescue options are limited’ – NSRI
NSRI Hartbeespoort Station Commander Arthur Crewe urged the public to reconsider launching any craft at this time.
“We are asking the public to carefully consider whether it is safe to go out on the water,” Crewe said.
“If your craft becomes trapped in the hyacinth, the rescue options are limited. Even our rescue vessels suffer damage attempting to get through, and in some cases, rescues are extremely challenging.”
Risks posed by the hyacinth surge
According to the NSRI, current conditions at the dam present several severe dangers:
NSRI crews remain on standby for life-threatening emergencies, but warn that operations in such conditions are increasingly dangerous for rescuers.
“Launching without a clear understanding of where the hyacinth is, and how fast it’s moving, places not only your life at risk but also that of our volunteers,” Crewe added.
“Every rescue in these conditions is dangerous and may result in further damage to rescue equipment and delays in assistance.”
If launching is unavoidable
The NSRI advises anyone still planning to launch a boat or craft on the dam to take strict precautions:
The NSRI emphasises that the current conditions are expected to worsen in the coming weeks and encourages the public to prioritise safety and avoid unnecessary risks on the water.
