Waterford residents urged to cut back on water usage as hosepipe ban continues countywide

Uisce Éireann is reminding households across Waterford that the hosepipe ban remains in place for another month.

The hosepipe ban, which was introduced on July 26 and remains in place until September 16, restricts the use of garden hoses and other non-essential water uses.

The measure was deemed necessary after an unusually dry spell and surging demand put pressure on supplies countywide.

According to Met Éireann, rainfall in Waterford between May and July was almost 43% lower than average, with just 116mm recorded compared with the usual 203.6mm.

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Fionnuala Callery, Regional Technical Operations Manager for Water at Uisce Éireann, said the ban plays a vital role in protecting local supplies.

"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 Waterford have not had their usual seasonal recharge," she said.

"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. Using a hosepipe for just one hour can use as much water as a family typically consumes in an entire day."

Ms Callery urged households to "leave the hose and pressure washer in the shed" and instead take small steps such as shorter showers or reusing household water in the garden.

Leaks in the public water network can be reported 24/7 via 1800 278 278 or water.ie.

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