Many Rivers at Historic Lows as Hosepipe Ban Widens

Uisce Éireann has warned that many rivers and water sources remain at historically low levels, despite a spell of wet weather last week, prompting the extension of hosepipe bans to four more counties.

From Saturday, July 26, new Water Conservation Orders will come into effect for Waterford, Tipperary, Wexford, and Cork (excluding Cork City). The restrictions will remain in place until September 16 and prohibit the use of hosepipes and other forms of non-essential water use by households and businesses.

The move comes amid growing concern over water scarcity following a dry autumn, winter and spring, which left water levels in many areas critically low. Uisce Éireann says that while last week’s rain brought some short-term relief, it was not nearly enough to replenish supplies that have been steadily declining for months.

“Many rivers and sources remain at historically low levels,” said Mairead Conlon, Asset Strategy Manager with Uisce Éireann. “Non-essential use of water—particularly hosepipes—puts added strain on supplies that are already stretched to the limit.”

The four new counties join Mullingar (Co. Westmeath), Milford (Co. Donegal), and Kells-Oldcastle (Co. Meath), where similar Water Conservation Orders remain in effect. In total, seven areas are now subject to hosepipe bans, while almost 50 public water supplies nationwide are currently in drought status.

The bans aim to curb high summer water demand, which has soared due to warmer temperatures and seasonal activity. Uisce Éireann said it is implementing emergency measures to keep supplies stable, including leak repairs, tankering, and pressure management.

Despite the recent rainfall, Ms Conlon said it would take far longer for water sources to return to normal:

“The past year has been significantly drier than average. Even with the rainfall in recent days, groundwater levels and river flows remain well below normal. Using a hose for just one hour uses the same amount of water as a household might consume in an entire day — and that’s water we need to prioritise for essential use.”

The public is being urged to cut back on discretionary water use, such as watering gardens, washing cars, or filling paddling pools. Uisce Éireann has also launched an online water conservation calculator to help people assess their usage and identify savings. It is available at www.water.ie.

Leaks can be reported around the clock by calling 1800 278 278.