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Uisce Éireann has imposed a six-week hosepipe ban in parts of the country after a spell of unusually hot, dry weather. Neighbours who see the restrictions being ignored can report incidents to the water authority.
Scope and duration
The prohibition applies to six areas: Dublin, south Tipperary, parts of Kildare, Meath, Wexford and Wicklow. It begins shortly after midnight on Thursday and will remain in force until 26 August, unless conditions change.
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Why the ban has been introduced
Uisce Éireann said the measure is necessary because recent temperatures and lack of rain have put sustained pressure on treatment plants, reservoirs and the wider supply network. Domestic water use is running at about 20% above normal levels, with daily demand in the Greater Dublin Area reaching roughly 693 million litres.
The authority has urged households to cut non-essential use to help safeguard supplies for homes, hospitals, vulnerable customers and essential services.
What is prohibited
The order bans a range of non-essential outdoor uses. Examples include:
- watering lawns and gardens
- washing cars
- filling paddling pools
Uisce Éireann said the restrictions could be lifted earlier if the weather improves, or extended if the drought persists. It is also actively considering similar measures for other parts of the country.
How to report breaches
Members of the public who witness hosepipe use that appears to contravene the order are asked to contact Uisce Éireann directly. Reports can be made via the authority’s online complaint page or by phoning 1800 278 278.
When making a report, callers will be asked for the exact location, the date and time of the incident, and the type of activity observed (for example lawn-watering or vehicle washing).
Other supply restrictions and the weather outlook
Separately, night-time watering restrictions are currently in place on 39 water supplies affecting parts of Donegal, Cavan, Longford, Meath, Galway, Laois, Tipperary, Limerick, Kerry, Cork, Waterford, Kilkenny and Wexford.
Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow high temperature warning for Cork, Clare, Kerry, Limerick, Galway and Mayo until 7am on Wednesday. Those counties may see daytime highs above 27°C and overnight minimums of 15°C or more, with forecasts indicating the spell of heat could persist into next week.
