Welsh Water has issued an important message to customers on the current situation following an extended period of dry weather.
From Welsh Water:
“Across our operating area, dry weather directly affects our water resources.
“This year has seen the warmest and sunniest spring on record in both Wales and the UK.
“This combination of heat and sunshine, coupled with very low rainfall, has created challenging conditions across much of the country for water resources.
“This prolonged period of dry weather has caused reservoir storage to decline to levels below what we would like to see at this time of year.
“Each reservoir and area we serve has different trigger points for restricting water usage. We would like to avoid this and ask customers to work with us to help conserve water resources.”
Reservoir levels
Around 95% of water resources originate as surface water either from reservoir storage or river abstractions. The below image shows the status of reservoir levels and is updated monthly.
“We have very little dependence on groundwater supplies.
“This reliance on surface waters can increase vulnerability to short periods of low rainfall as river levels change more quickly than groundwaters.
“River levels are the responsibility of Natural Resources Wales.
“Our teams are working hard to ensure we’re taking every step possible to maximise water efficiency across our operating areas including:
“Leakage detection and repairs to cut the amount of water that is lost from the network. Teams are working across the country fixing leaks as quickly as they can.
“Our teams are currently fixing around 700 leaks every week and customers can help by reporting any leaks to us. Over the next five years, we will reduce leakage by a quarter and we’re spending around £400m on pipe replacement and leakage repairs to support this ambition.
“Increased water storage.
“Rezoning and tankering water to areas in high demand.
“Ongoing network upgrades.
“Increased water production at our treatment works to move water around the system to keep the levels topped up where demand is highest.
“We’re doing all we can to save water by fixing leaks quickly and moving water around where we can and are asking for your help to reduce the amount of water that you use.
“It’s important that we all play our part by continuing to reduce consumption so that together we can help minimise the risk of restrictions to supplies.”
Drought Plan
“Welsh Water’s Drought Plan outlines how we manage water supplies during dry periods to ensure continued service for our customers while protecting the environment.
“The plan includes monitoring water levels and weather patterns to anticipate drought conditions. We work closely with Welsh Government, Natural Resources Wales and other stakeholders to develop the plan.
“Our latest Drought Plan is available here.”
