Uisce Éireann has imposed a six-week hosepipe ban in parts of Donegal, Meath, and Westmeath following what officials describe as a “sharp drop in water levels” across key water sources. The water conservation order took effect immediately as authorities struggle to maintain essential water supplies.
The ban affects residents in Milford (Co Donegal), Mullingar (Co Westmeath), and the Kells-Oldcastle area (Co Meath), where local water sources have reached critically low levels after what officials describe as a “drier-than-average autumn, winter and spring.”
Lough Owel, which serves as Mullingar’s primary water supply, has reached its lowest point in half a century. Similar historic lows have been recorded at Lough Colmcille and Lough Bane, which supply Milford and Kells-Oldcastle respectively.
“Uisce Éireann’s top priority is to protect our water supply for use in homes, businesses and essential services,” said Margaret Attridge, Head of Water Operations at Uisce Éireann. “The past 12 months have been drier than normal when compared to the long-term average.”
The national water utility has implemented several measures in recent weeks to address the crisis, including leakage repair, pressure management, and water conservation campaigns.
As summer approaches, authorities are particularly concerned about increased water consumption. “Warmer weather creates a surge in demand for water, for gardening, leisure and other purposes,” Attridge explained. “Using a hosepipe for one hour is the equivalent of the daily water usage of an average family.”
Residents are being urged to conserve water through simple measures such as taking shorter showers and reusing household water for gardens.
The water conservation order will remain in effect for six weeks as officials monitor reservoir levels and weather conditions.