Rainfall Falls Short as Donegal Water Restrictions extended for 7 weeks

Despite a recent spell of cooler, wetter conditions, Uisce Éireann has extended the Water Conservation Order for the Milford Regional Public Water Supply in County Donegal.

The order, now in effect until Monday, August 4, 2025, remains limited to customers in Milford, Kerrykeel, and Ramelton, where water levels at Lough Colmcille remain alarmingly low.

Rainfall Helps – But Not Nearly Enough

The past few weeks have seen an uptick in rainfall across much of Donegal, with temperatures dipping below early summer averages. However, this has not been sufficient to counteract the effects of an exceptionally dry autumn and winter, according to Uisce Éireann.

“While it may seem like we’ve had a fair amount of rain lately, the long-term picture tells another story,” said Damien O’Sullivan, Water Network Operations Manager for Donegal. “We’re coming off the back of an unseasonably warm and dry autumn and winter, during which Lough Colmcille didn’t receive its typical recharge.”

As a result, the lake’s water levels remain lower than previously recorded for this time of year. These low levels are of particular concern heading into the summer period, which typically brings higher temperatures and increased water demand.

Dry Spell on the Horizon

The weather outlook for the coming week shows a shift toward warmer and drier conditions, with high pressure expected to dominate across the northwest. Temperatures are forecast to climb into the high teens and low twenties, which could lead to a surge in water usage—particularly for gardening, outdoor cleaning, and holiday-related activities.

“A return to dry weather is expected to increase pressure on already stressed supplies, especially if demand spikes again,” O’Sullivan warned.

Supply Still Under Pressure Despite Conservation Efforts

Since October, Uisce Éireann has implemented a range of measures, including reducing abstraction from Lough Colmcille by 40%, repairing leaks, and supplementing Milford’s supply with water from nearby sources. But O’Sullivan says natural replenishment through rainfall is still crucial: “Without sustained rainfall over a longer period, the lake won’t recover to normal summer levels. We’re relying on the public’s continued support in conserving every drop.”

Weather-Responsive Water Saving Tips

With warmer days ahead, Uisce Éireann is urging the public to take weather-smart conservation steps:

• Skip the Sprinkler: Lawns can survive dry spells – let nature take its course.
• Water Early or Late: If watering is essential, do it during cooler parts of the day to reduce evaporation.
• Rain Ready: Use a water butt to collect rainwater for plants when rain does return.
• Limit Outdoor Use: Postpone washing cars or power-hosing patios until rainfall improves.
• Stay Efficient Indoors: Shorten showers and only run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads.

You can check your household’s water use and learn how to cut back using Uisce Éireann’s Water Conservation Calculator.