Uisce Éireann urge customers in Co. Kerry to conserve water as reservoirs replenish

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

With temperatures dropping to below zero in Kerry and further snowfall in parts overnight, there is huge pressure on reservoirs in the county to fully replenish.

While power was restored at the reservoir at Brosna yesterday, it remains depleted, and it may take another day to fully replenish.

Alternative water supplies in the form of bulk tankers were made available for customers at Hedley’s Bridge, Knocknagoshel, Castleisland GAA pitch and the Square in Brosna. With water now restored in Brosna village and in most areas of Knocknagoshel, the tanker will be removed later this evening from Brosna. The tankers at Hedley’s Bridge and Castleisland GAA pitch will remain in place.

Uisce Éireann crews have also provided bottled water to the following drop off points:

• Knocknagoshel GAA Pitch, Primary School and Hedley’s Bridge
• Old Filling Station on the Limerick Road, Castleisland and Glounsharoon

We would ask customers to remain vigilant when travelling to these locations as Kerry County Council has advised that driving conditions are very hazardous.

Uisce Éireann’s Operations Lead in Kerry, Charlie O’Leary said: “It is hugely important that water is conserved at this time, and we would ask that people do not let their taps run throughout the day or night as this is having a significant knock-on effect on the capability of reservoirs in Kerry to fully replenish. It is vitally important that our reservoirs throughout Kerry are given the time to replenish. We want to thank the people of Kerry for their support and understanding at this time.”

Where supply has been restored, it may take several hours for the network, reservoirs and pipelines to recharge and for adequate pressures to build up again. In some areas, for properties on higher ground, it may take longer for the network to fully replenish. As the network refills and supplies return, customers in the impacted areas may experience intermittent disruption or low water pressure.

Mr O’Leary said: “There are likely to be further challenges with the thaw that follows the freezing weather and this in turn may lead to bursts and leaks on the network. We would be hugely grateful for the public’s support to help protect water supplies by being mindful of water use - don’t leave taps running continually, have pots filled for hot drinks and have water to prepare food. We are closely monitoring all of the reservoirs in Kerry and they need time to fully recharge.”

To help people avoid issues like this and stay safe, warm and comfortable during the cold snap we have lots of helpful advice on the Winterproofing section of our website.

Uisce Éireann is encouraging people to report any leaks or bursts on the public water networks to our Customer Care Team on 1800 278 278. We’re available 24/7 and customers can also contact us on X @IWCare with any queries. 

Uisce Éireann has launched a free text service, providing real-time updates for local issues. Customers can sign up with their Eircode and mobile number at the text alerts page.