Tipperary heatwave: Water usage to be restricted as Status Yellow warning issued for high temperatures
Status Yellow high temperature warning takes effect
Uisce Éireann has asked people to avoid using hoses
Thousands of customers across Tipperary are being asked to conserve water amid a Status Yellow high temperature warning being issued for the county by Met Éireann.
Uisce Éireann have asked homes and businesses across the Premier County to reduce their water usage over the coming days as water is being used faster than it can be replaced.
The warning comes as night-time restrictions are being placed on some water supplies in the county.
The Status Yellow warning for high temperatures comes into effect from 1pm on Friday (July 10) and runs until 7am on Sunday, July 12.
Maximum temperatures are expected to exceed 27C, with minimum overnight temperatures of at least 15C.
Met Éireann say that there is a risk of water safety issues due to increased use of lakes and beaches, uncomfortable sleeping conditions, a risk of heat stress and a possibility of forest fires over the weekend due to prolonged high temperatures.
Tipperary is one of 13 areas nationwide that has seen night-time water restrictions imposed.
Both the Cashel and Ardfinnan regional water supplies will be subject to overnight restrictions.
Restrictions came into force for the Cashel supply from 12am on Friday (July 10) and will run until 7am on Saturday morning.
In Ardfinnan, restrictions will be imposed from 8pm on Friday night until 7am on Saturday morning (July 11).
Customers in the affected areas may experience low pressure or a disruption to their water supply while the restrictions are in place.
Uisce Éireann said low reservoir levels and sustained demand have made the overnight restrictions necessary.
The water authority is asking customers to avoid using hoses, or leaving taps running, and to take showers rather than baths.
Margaret Attridge, head of water operations with Uisce Éireann, said that any efforts that people can make to reduce their water usage can be very effective.
“Those everyday actions really do help, especially during busy summer periods when supplies can come under pressure.
“We know overnight restrictions can be inconvenient, especially for households and businesses trying to plan their day-to-day routines. These restrictions are only used where needed to protect local supplies and reduce the risk of more serious disruption later on,” Ms Attridge said.
Meanwhile, with warm weather expected to draw more people outdoors, Tipperary County Council have announced that a lifeguard service will start at Dromineer Harbour this weekend.
Lifeguards will be on duty daily from Saturday, July 11 from 11am to 7pm at the designated bathing area (left of the main harbour, between the two low jetties).