By Dan Walsh
Uisce Éireann informs customers in Wexford that a Water Conservation Order (hosepipe ban) remains in effect in County Wexford until September 16th.
The restrictions include the use of garden hoses and other non-essential water uses.
The Order was put in place following a long period of dry weather combined with high demand, placing severe pressure on water supplies across the county.
Met Éireann reports that Wexford had much less rainfall than usual from May to July. A total of 158.9 mm of rainfall was measured by Met Éireann at JohnstownCastle weather station during this period, compared to an average of 219.6mm for the same months in previous years —over 27% less rainfall recorded locally.
Fionnuala Callery, Regional Technical Operations Manager for Water at Uisce Éireann, told WexfordLocal.com; “Uisce Éireann’s top priority is to safeguard water supplies for homes, businesses, and essential services. While it may often feel like Ireland receives plenty of rain, the data shows the past 12 months have been unseasonably warm and dry. As a result, water sources across Wexford have not had their usual seasonal recharge.
“In response, we have ramped up efforts in leakage detection, pipe repair, and overall network management. With demand continuing to outstrip supply in some areas — and further dry weather anticipated — we are reminding the public that the Water Conservation Order remains in place to help protect the local water supply.
“Our data clearly shows that warm weather drives a significant increase in water demand, particularly for non-essential uses like gardening and outdoor cleaning. For example, using a hosepipe for just one hour can use as much water as a family typically consumes in an entire day.
“We will continue to monitor water consumption while the Order remains in place. Protecting our water supply is essential if we are to avoid more severe restrictions or supply interruptions in the weeks and months ahead,” stated Ms. Callery.
Members of the public can report leaks in the public water network 24/7 by calling 1800 278 278 or visiting water.ie.
WexfordLocal.com 