Lough Owel levels normal for time of year: Uisce Éireann

Uisce Éireann say that low water levels in Lough Owel at this time of year “are not a cause for concern”.

The supply from Lough Owel serves over 50,000 customers across a large area of County Westmeath. The lake levels generally reach their lowest point during autumn.

For two consecutive years the public were asked to curtail their water usage over the summer and autumn as part of Uisce Éireann’s water resource management practices.

In August, a hosepipe ban in place for 13 counties was lifted two weeks ahead of schedule. That Uisce Éireann conservation order was lifted because of the positive impact of water conservation efforts and improved conditions.

The Water Conservation Order was introduced in July following a significant period of dry weather and exceptionally high demand, placing pressure on water supplies in Ireland.

The previous year a hosepipe ban in place in Mullingar stood for five months as the lake hit historically low level. Heavy rainfall in autumn allowed the lake to fully recover.

The current low levels in the lake have made the long shallow to the north of Church Island clearly visible, but are not affecting the supply.

Uisce Éireann stated: “At present, the water levels at Lough Owel are not a cause for concern. While levels have reduced in recent months, this is a natural seasonal pattern. Lake levels typically reach their lowest point during autumn following the summer period and then replenish over the winter months.

“We continue to monitor levels closely as part of the ongoing management of the supply, and at this time there is no impact on the provision of water services to customers.”