Residents and businesses across Newcastle are being urged to prepare for a planned 10-hour interruption to the municipal water supply on Wednesday, 26 November 2025.
According to the Newcastle Local Municipality, the disruption is linked to scheduled Eskom maintenance work that will temporarily affect uThukela Water’s ability to pump and distribute water. As a result, supply is expected to be severely reduced or completely halted between 08:00 and 18:00.
Areas likely to experience interruptions include central Newcastle, Kilbarchan, Madadeni, Osizweni, Alcockspruit, and surrounding communities.
In its official notice, the municipality emphasised that the shutdown is unavoidable and forms part of essential infrastructure upkeep.
“We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Residents are therefore urged to continue using water sparingly. All water and sewer-related complaints can be reported to 087 740 8839 and electrical complaints to 034 312 1201 during office hours, and after hours to 034 328 4700. Fire, disaster, and traffic emergencies can be reported to 034 328 4700 or 079 542 8228,” it said.
With the interruption now imminent, officials are advising households and businesses to store enough water for drinking, cooking, sanitation, and other essentials, while avoiding non-essential consumption until normal supply resumes. Emergency contact numbers will remain operational throughout the outage.
While the temporary shutdown may pose short-term inconvenience, it also underscores the importance of maintenance, forward planning, and responsible water use. Residents and commercial users are encouraged to remain informed, prepared, and cooperative to help minimise disruption across the city.
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FAQs:
Central Newcastle, Kilbarchan, Madadeni, Osizweni, Alcockspruit and surrounding communities may experience severely reduced or no water supply.
The planned interruption is scheduled for Wednesday, 26 November 2025, from 08:00 to 18:00, depending on Eskom’s maintenance work.
Water and sewer issues can be reported to 087 740 8839, electrical faults to 034 312 1201 (office hours) or 034 328 4700 (after hours). Fire, disaster and traffic emergencies can be reported to 034 328 4700 or 079 542 8228.
2 Responses
Which areas specifically.
The description is vague
I have reported a waterleak in Barry Hertzog Park about 3 weeks ago. No reply from councilers or municipality. If it was untreated water it would have been acceptable. The last excuse were there is a electricity black out.