Uisce Éireann warns night time restrictions on water usage may be enforced following cold snap

Uisce Éireann has urged people to report any visible leaks in the public water network as crews continue to carry out maintenance and repair works following Ireland's freezing temperatures last week.

As reservoir levels continue to be under pressure following the big freeze, night time restrictions might be implemented in order to allow the levels to recover. 

Last week's icy weather and the subsequent thaw continues to impact Ireland's water network as Uisce Éireann said there has been a "notable increase" in leaks and bursts over the weekend.

There have been approximately 25 significant bursts recorded in the Greater Dublin Area alone this weekend, along with smaller leaks. 

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This has resulted in the region's demand reaching record levels, impacting the reservoir storage even further.

Uisce Éireann has asked everyone to help reduce the issue by checking their properties for burst pipes and leaks and to report any leaks in public areas so that they can be prioritised for repair.

People are also being reminded to not leave taps running and to fix dripping or leaking taps.    

Uisce Éireann’s Head of Water Operations, Margaret Attridge, commented: "As the freezing conditions of the past week are replaced by a thaw we are seeing an increase in leaks and bursts on the network. Water services crews have been carrying out works throughout the weekend to repair these and ensure we maintain normal supplies to customers.

"Night time restrictions may also be required in some areas to allow reservoir levels to recover."

She added: "We would ask people to remain vigilant over the coming days and report any leaks they see in the public network so that our crews can carry out repairs. The public can report leaks or bursts to our Customer Care Team on 1800 278 278."