A hosepipe ban that is in place across six counties is set to be extended nationwide from Friday.
Uisce Éireann has extended the hosepipe ban nationwide as Ireland's prolonged hot and dry weather conditions continues to put drinking water supplies under pressure.
The hosepipe ban is currently in place for Dublin, South Tipperary and parts of Kildare, Meath, Wexford and Wicklow and is set to be nationwide from Friday 24 July until Wednesday 26 August.
Uisce Éireann said via The Journal that the nationwide is being introduced as a way to protect water supplies "now and in the months ahead." They noted that several groundwater sources are experiencing severe pressure with "reduced or no yields being experienced in a number of areas."
According to the company, recent high temperatures and rainfall below average is creating a high demand and adding pressure on water sources and treated drinking water supplies.
The hosepipe ban will come into place 00.01 on 24 July and will apply to all households.
Once the ban is in place, it is prohibits the use of a hosepipe, cleaning a motor vehicle or leisure boat. It also prohibits filling a swimming, paddling pool and a ornamental fountain.
As well as the ban, Uisce Éireann are urging people to use only the water they need. They have highlighted a number of ways to save water, which include, taking shorter showers, fixing leaking taps and toilets.
Máiread Conlon, Asset Strategy Senior Manager with Uisce Éireann said in a statement: "Early indications show that people are supporting the Water Conservation Order already in place, with water usage in the Greater Dublin Area beginning to decrease."
"I want to thank everyone who has taken steps to conserve water. This is making a difference, but pressures remain high and we are now asking people across the country to continue reducing non-essential use. Every drop counts. Continued support from the public will help reduce pressure on supplies and keep water available for essential daily need," she continued.
