Water shortage warning as dry spell continues

THE lengthy dry spell could cause serious water shortages in Kerry, with levels at the lowest in memory, according to County Council engineers.

The council yesterday issued a public warning to householders, industry and tourism operators to expect shortages if it doesn’t rain soon.

Shortages could be severe, said senior executive engineer Colm Mangan, as levels are so low. “We’re appealing to people to help us and help themselves by conserving water,” he said.

“The most worrying aspect is the fact that shortages do not usually happen until late summer.”

Alternative water sources have had to be found for the village of Annascaul, in the Dingle peninsula. Water may also have to be brought in by truck to some villages.

Duagh, in north Kerry, and Camp, in west Kerry, are both severely affected.

Mr Mangan said alternative arrangements were temporary and could not expect to hold out if the dry weather continued.

Ongoing drought conditions mean water supplies are seriously depleted and a number of the council’s 70 public supplies are expected to go dry over the next weeks, Mr Mangan said.

Lough Guitane, near Killarney, which supplies 10 million gallons a day, is already at a lower level than is usual for the time of year.

“Last October, we were worried about Lough Guitane. We are very concerned now and it is only June,” Mr Mangan said.

The council has appealed to customers to use water sparingly and to check for leaks. They have also been told not to water lawns or wash cars. Customers can also expect curtailment of supplies at night.