City officials said efforts by residents, businesses, farmers and tourists to slow water usage and conserve its supplies during its ongoing water shortage had seen the destination “drastically reduce” its consumption by 57% in three years.

Initiatives to save water, such as taking 90-second showers, had previously seen the predicted date of Day Zero pushed back from mid-April to late August.

The city’s “worst-case scenario” model – that assumes no rain falls at all – is now forecasting that dam water levels will only fall below 13.5% towards the end of August.

The Cape region traditional experiences winter rainfall, usually beginning in May, and lasting into August.

The destination said when that aspect was factored in with its “record low levels of consumption…it is now clear that the taps will stay open this year.”

Tolene van der Merwe, hub head UK & Ireland for South African Tourism, said: “During this challenging time, the tourism industry and locals have worked collectively to swiftly implement numerous measures to reduce water consumption and preserve stocks whilst continuing to welcome visitors and provide a great experience.

“Although this is very positive news for the destination, we cannot be complacent. We must continue to be sensitive to the changing environment and modify our attitudes to water consumption to ensure we manage and preserve this invaluable resource for generations to come.

“We look forward to welcoming more visitors over the coming months to see what our amazing country has to offer.”