Dry Weather Forces Cork and Donegal Water Restrictions

Uisce Éireann has announced overnight water restrictions in parts of Donegal and Cork to ensure continued supply to homes, businesses and industries during the day.

In Donegal, restrictions affecting customers supplied by the Downings Water Treatment Plant will be in place from 10.30pm to 7am each night until Thursday, 21 August. The measures are necessary due to high demand on the water supply and to allow reservoir levels to recover.

John Gallagher of Uisce Éireann said: “These restrictions are required to address high water usage and to allow the supply breathing space to replenish. We are consistently monitoring the supply and we understand the inconvenience that the restrictions may cause. We apologise to customers and thank them for their patience.”

Customers are being urged to conserve water wherever possible. Simple actions such as turning off taps while brushing teeth or shaving, keeping a jug of water in the fridge instead of running the tap, and reusing water for garden use can significantly reduce demand.

The company warned that some morning discolouration may occur during the restrictions. Running the cold kitchen tap for up to 20 minutes usually clears the water, which remains safe to drink once it runs clear. Customers experiencing persistent issues are advised to contact Uisce Éireann on 1800 278 278.

In Cork, customers supplied by the Abbeystrowry Reservoir, including Lisheens, Baltimore, Sherkin Island, Ballydehob, Schull and Heir Island, will experience restrictions from 10pm on 19 August to 7am each day until Saturday, 23 August.

Niall O’Riordan, Operations Manager at Uisce Éireann, said: “These restrictions are required to address high water usage and to allow the reservoir time to replenish overnight. We are asking the public to conserve water. Even small changes such as turning off garden hoses or avoiding power washing can make a difference.”

In addition to overnight restrictions, water supplies in Cork are being supplemented by tanker trucks, and a Water Conservation Order remains in effect in Cork County, excluding Cork city, until 16 September 2025. Customers are encouraged to report leaks promptly to safeguard supplies.

Updates are available on water.ie, on X @IWCare, and via the 24/7 customer care line on 1800 278 278. A free text service providing real-time updates for local issues is also available through water.ie.