Concern over water levels as Ireland experiences 'absolute drought' conditions

Concerns have been raised about water supplies around the country with 24 locations across the island experiencing absolute droughts in the past month. 

A total of 24 out of 25 synoptic stations are currently observing absolute droughts lasting between 15 and 23 days, according to Met Éireann.

The longest absolute droughts of 2023 are on-going at four stations in Wexford, Dublin and Carlow with 23 consecutive days.

The only previous absolute drought during 2023 ended on Thursday 9 February at Johnstown Castle, Co Wexford lasting 16 consecutive days.

The last absolute drought prior to 2023 ended on Saturday 2 April 2022 at Athenry, Co Galway, Mace Head, Co Galway (16 days) and Shannon Airport, Co Clare (17 days).

Uisce Éireann recently appealed to people to help protect water supplies as the dry weather continues.

Formerly known as Irish Water, the national utility says the majority of water supplies are operating normally and that there are no plans to introduce general water restrictions at this time.

Ireland is currently experiencing widespread climatological dry periods not seen since the summer of 2018

Absolute droughts are on-going at 24 out of 25 synoptic stations

Dry spells are on-going at 25 out of 25 synoptic stations

here - https://t.co/o3CSCHG8km pic.twitter.com/vh3JhNfQPt

— Irish Observational Climatology (@METclimate) June 7, 2023

An overnight restriction was required on Friday night for parts of counties Westmeath, Kerry and Kilkenny.

Uisce Éireann said that this helped to restore reservoir levels and maintain a consistent supply of drinking water during the day for people over the Bank holiday weekend.

The company says, however, that it had to continue with overnight restrictions in Clonakilty in Cork and in Inis Oírr in Galway.