Overnight water restrictions are being introduced in parts of Kerry as demand for treated water rises in warm weather

Information below is relevant until further updates are provided here or on our Supply and Service Updates section

Uisce Éireann is asking customers in Kerry to conserve water as increased use during the current spell of warm weather means supplies are being used faster than water can be treated. While raw water sources remain stable, the level of demand is placing pressure on the treatment process. This means treated water is being used more quickly than it can be produced and stored in local reservoirs. Periods of sustained high demand can lead to reduced pressure and, in some cases, interruptions to the availability of water for customers

As a result of high demand, Uisce Éireann is introducing targeted nighttime restrictions to protect daytime supply for homes and businesses. The overnight restrictions will be introduced from tonight in the following areas:

In Mid Kerry, nighttime water restrictions will be in place at Barleymount Reservoir from 9pm until 6am tomorrow morning. As a result, customers in Faha, Lahard, Two Mile School, Ballyhar, Aglish, Holycross, Kilnanare, and parts of Aghadoe and Fossa may experience lower water pressure or temporary disruptions to supply while these measures are in operation.

Meanwhile, at Knockavota Water Treatment Plant in Milltown, essential nighttime restrictions are required to protect the daytime supplies from 3pm until 8am. Customers in Calinfercy, Kilderry, Tinnahalla, Stealroe, Ard na Greine , Banshagh and Kilburn may experience low or reduced supply. To support impacted customers, an alternative water supply in the form of a tanker is available at Ard na Greine in Milltown. Customers are reminded to use their own containers when taking water from tankers and to boil water before consumption as a precautionary measure. 

At Caragh Lake Water Treatment Plant which feeds Glannagilliagh Reservoir, overnight restrictions will take place from 9pm until 8am which may impact customers in Glannagilliagh, Muingaphuca, Rangue, Tullig Beg and Tooreennasliggaun. In addition, overnight restrictions will also take place at Tousist Water Treatment Plant and Lauragh Water Treatment Plant from 9pm until 8am.

Uisce Éireann will continue to monitor water levels closely in Kerry and adjust operations daily based on demand, usage, and weather conditions. A further operational assessment is scheduled for mid-week.

Eoin O’Connell, Operations Manager, Uisce Éireann urged the community in Kerry to support the conservation measures.

“Nighttime restrictions are being implemented to support treated reservoir recovery and maintain daytime supply. Conserving water will help protect resources and maintain supply for all. When there is an increase in temperatures it leads to a rise in demand for water. Water is a hugely precious resource, and it is important to conserve water.”

Simple steps taken at home, in the garden and at work can make a real difference in protecting supply during this time.

 
 Tips to Conserve Water   
•    Drop the hose: Use a rose-head watering can over a hose or sprinkler. Aim for the roots. Water plants early or late in the day to limit evaporation. 
•    Take short showers instead of a bath: Reducing your shower time can save up to 10 litres of water per minute. A typical bath uses 80 litres 
•    Turn off the tap: Not running water while brushing your teeth or shaving can save up to 6 litres a minute. Keep a jug of water in the fridge for drinks. 
•    Fill up your appliances: Only run your washing machine and dishwasher when they have a full load 
•    Fix dripping taps: A single dripping tap can waste between 5,000 and 10,000 litres of water a year 
•    Use a basin in the sink: Use a basin when rinsing vegetables or washing dishes and reuse that water for your plants 
•    Clean the car with a sponge: When washing your car, avoid the hose and use a bucket and sponge instead. 
•    Install a water butt: Use it to collect rainwater from your gutters for gardening or washing the yard 
•    Pick plants wisely: Opt for low-water plants like lavender or olive trees. Established plants and lawns often don't need watering unless there's a drought 
•    Lock in moisture: Add bark or plant material to flower beds to prevent evaporation or use gel beads in pots to keep roots hydrated. 
 

Members of the public can report leaks in the public water network by calling 1800 278 278 or online through the Report a Leak section our website.

Uisce Éireann's customer care team is available 24/7 on 1800 278 278 and customers can also contact us on X @IWCare with any queries.

For further updates, visit the Water Service Updates section of our website.

Vulnerable customers who have registered with Uisce Éireann receive direct communications from us for planned and unplanned outages lasting more than four hours. To register for additional support, visit the Vulnerable Customers section of our website.

Uisce Éireann has a free text service providing real-time updates for local issues. Customers can sign up with their Eircode and mobile number through the Text Alerts service on our website.