Recent data on Kariba Lake levels from the Zambezi River Authority indicates a continuous decline over the past four weeks, primarily attributed to low upstream inflows. The lake is designed to operate between levels 475.50m and 488.50m (with 0.70m freeboard) for hydropower generation.
The current water levels are notably lower compared to the same period last year.
The four-week comparative analysis below highlights this decline:
Date 2024 2023
Meter ASL BCM % Meter ASL BCM %
22 April 477.49m 8.94 13.80% 478.90m 15.43 23.83%
29 April 477.44m 8.71 13.45% 478.98m 15.81 24.41%
8 May 477.41m 8.58 13.24% 479.08m 16.29 25.13%
17 May 477.40m 8.53 13.17% 479.23m 16.99 26.22%
**ASL (Above Sea Level)
**BCM (billion cubic metres)
This consistent reduction in water levels at Kariba Lake highlights the ongoing challenges posed by inadequate upstream inflows, raising concerns about the reservoir’s capacity and the potential impacts on power generation and water supply.
