Investigations are underway across Donegal to repair leaks caused by burst mains after the cold snap.
The sub-zero temperatures of last week have increased the number of burst pipes, according to Irish Water, while there is added pressure to water supplies.
Repairs to a burst water main took place at Windyhall Road in Letterkenny overnight, while issues were reported across many other areas in recent days.
“Irish Water crews are on the ground, working in partnership with Donegal County Council, to maintain essential water and wastewater services,” a spokesperson said.
“Investigations into leaks caused by burst mains continue to take place at several locations. While our raw water reservoirs and sources are full at this time of year, demand for water in Donegal has increased and is putting pressure on the supply of treated water in our storage reservoirs.”
The sub-zero temperatures of last week have increased the number of burst pipes, causing increased pressure on water supplies across the county. Freezing water expands and strains the pipes until they crack or burst, not only impacting older, weakened pipes but also modern pipes that are laid in shallow ground and vulnerable to temperature drops.
Seamus O’Brien, Operations Lead for Irish Water, offered this advice: “With the temperatures having been below freezing and some element of subsequent thaw, it is essential to continue the regular maintenance of your property and check premises for leaks. It is also a good idea to familiarise yourself with your own internal water system and particularly how to turn off your supply at the stopcock so that you can protect your property in the event of a burst pipe.
“We are constantly monitoring the levels of our reservoirs throughout the county, however, some homes and business in the county may experience low water pressure or loss of supply due to a combination of increased demand and burst watermains. To protect and maintain supply while we conduct repairs, we are asking customers to assist us by checking for bursts and overflowing troughs on their own properties, and turning these off where they are found. We are also asking customers to check unoccupied and empty premises.”
