Approximately 35,000 people across Ireland are facing water shortages due to significant impacts on water treatment infrastructure caused by Storm Isha, according to Uisce Eireann, commonly known as Irish Water. The utility company reported disruptions particularly in Mayo, Donegal, Leitrim, and Cavan, citing power outages and poor raw water quality resulting from flooding.

Irish Water is actively engaged in ongoing efforts nationwide to undertake necessary repairs and is collaborating closely with electricity supplier ESB Networks to prioritize the restoration of power to affected plants. Tom Cuddy, Head of Operations at Uisce Eireann, stated, “Our crews are on the ground working to restore production as soon as possible for areas where supplies have been impacted.”

He further explained that the restoration of normal supply may take several hours, especially for customers in elevated areas or at the ends of the network, even after power is restored or repairs are completed. Acknowledging the inconvenience caused, Cuddy urged customers to conserve water wherever possible to facilitate the recovery of supplies.

“We want to thank impacted customers for their patience as we work to restore normal supplies,” added Cuddy. The utility company is actively addressing the challenges posed by Storm Isha, aiming to minimise the impact on affected communities and swiftly restore water services.

As the situation unfolds, residents in the affected areas are encouraged to stay informed about updates from Irish Water and to cooperate with water conservation efforts to ensure a prompt recovery of water supplies.