Water restrictions introduced in parts of Limerick
Contingency tankering operations will also be taking place in parts of East and West Limerick to protect water supplies
UISCE Éireann is asking customers in Limerick to conserve water as increased use during the current spell of warm weather means supplies are being used faster than water can be treated.
A statement released by the company explained: “While raw water sources remain stable, the level of demand is placing pressure on the treatment process. This means treated water is being used more quickly than it can be produced and stored in local reservoirs.
“Periods of sustained high demand can lead to reduced pressure and, in some cases, interruptions to the availability of water for customers.”
As a result of high demand, Uisce Éireann is introducing targeted nighttime restrictions to protect daytime supply for homes and businesses.
Targeted overnight restrictions will take place from 10.30pm until 6.30am in the following catchment regions: Knocklong , Ballyagran, Coolcappagh, Castlemahon Newcastle and Dromcollogher and surrounding areas.
A spokesperson confirmed: “Uisce Éireann will continue to monitor water levels closely in Limerick and adjust operations daily based on demand, usage and weather conditions.”
In addition, to support water supplies during this period of increased demand, Uisce Éireann has also put contingency measures in place across East and West Limerick.
These measures include targeted contingency tankering operations to replenish treated water reservoirs and support areas experiencing increased demand.
The additional water “helps maintain reservoir levels, protect local supplies and strengthen network resilience, ensuring a reliable water supply for customers during periods of sustained pressure on the system”.
Tankering to treated water reservoirs will continue from tonight to the following locations – Bruff, Doon (Lacka), Cappamore-Foileen, Coolcappagh and Newcastlewest.
Brian Harrington, operations manager, Uisce Éireann urged the community in Limerick to support the conservation measures: “Nighttime restrictions are being implemented to support treated reservoir recovery and maintain daytime supply. Conserving water will help protect resources and maintain supply for all.
“When there is an increase in temperatures it leads to a rise in demand for water. Water is a hugely precious resource, and it is important to conserve water.”
The statement added: “Simple steps taken at home, in the garden and at work can make a real difference in protecting supply during this time.”
More information on water conservation can be found at https://www.water.ie/conservation/
Tips to Conserve Water:
· Drop the hose: Use a rose-head watering can over a hose or sprinkler. Aim for the roots. Water plants early or late in the day to limit evaporation.
· Take short showers instead of a bath: Reducing your shower time can save up to 10 litres of water per minute. A typical bath uses 80 litres
· Turn off the tap: Not running water while brushing your teeth or shaving can save up to 6 litres a minute. Keep a jug of water in the fridge for drinks.
· Fill up your appliances: Only run your washing machine and dishwasher when they have a full load.
· Fix dripping taps: A single dripping tap can waste between 5,000 and 10,000 litres of water a year.
· Use a basin in the sink: Use a basin when rinsing vegetables or washing dishes and reuse that water for your plants .
· Clean the car with a sponge: When washing your car, avoid the hose and use a bucket and sponge instead.
· Install a water butt: Use it to collect rainwater from your gutters for gardening or washing the yard.
· Pick plants wisely: Opt for low-water plants like lavender or olive trees. Established plants and lawns often don't need watering unless there's a drought
· Lock in moisture: Add bark or plant material to flower beds to prevent evaporation or use gel beads in pots to keep roots hydrated.
Members of the public can report any leaks in the public water network by contacting Uisce Éireann at 1800 278 278 or online at Report a Leak.
Uisce Éireann’s customer care team is available 24/7 on 1800 278 278 and customers can also contact us on X @IWCare with any queries. For further updates, visit the service and supply section of www.water.ie.
Uisce Éireann has a free text service, providing real-time updates for local issues. Customers can sign up with their Eircode and mobile number at the Text Alert page.
All contingency arrangements including nighttime restrictions will remain under continuous review, with a further operational assessment scheduled for Monday, 20 July.