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<\/p>\nLevels have shrunk since April – with hosepipe ban extended<\/p>\n
Crookhaven reservoir in April and August(Image: Uisce \u00c9ireann)<\/p>\n
We’re getting to the end of a record-breaking summer – but the hosepipe ban has been extended for Cork, and images show the shocking impact the heat has had on local reservoirs.<\/strong><\/p>\n The ban has been lifted for some counties, but for Cork and 12 others, it’ll be in place until the end of September<\/a> to allow supplies to be replenished. Aerial pictures how the dramatic drop in water levels at reservoirs in Crookhaven and Lake Cross, West Cork, over the summer.<\/p>\n At Crookhaven<\/a>, demand for treated water from the raw water impoundment increased significantly, rising to 202,000 litres per day in August compared to an average daily demand of 60,000 litres back in April. It comes as some farmers have been forced to spend up to \u20ac500 extra every day<\/a> to cover the cost of scorched grass and keep cattle fed.<\/p>\n Lake Cross, West Cork(Image: Uisce \u00c9ireann)<\/p>\n Uisce \u00c9ireann explained: “While increased rainfall and the public\u2019s conservation efforts have improved conditions in many parts of the country, supplies in parts of the east and south remain under pressure. Water supplies across Cork continue to experience sustained pressure as warm weather drives higher demand and reduced rainfall affects local water availability.”<\/p>\n Niall O\u2019Riordan, Operations Manager, also thanked communities across Cork for their support. \u201cWe recognise the effort that people have already made to conserve water, and we sincerely appreciate their continued support. Although conditions have improved in many parts of the country, Cork\u2019s water sources and public water supplies need more time to recover. Extending the Water Conservation Order will help us protect the water that is available and reduce the risk of disruption to customers.\u201d<\/p>\n Marking a pivot from months of high summer, this week heavy showers, thunderstorms and even spot flooding<\/a> are forecast, with Thursday in particular looking like a washout. Tomorrow (Tuesday) night could also bring heavy showers to the south coast. Daytime highs are also set to fall to around 17C by Thursday, making it feel much more autumnal.<\/p>\n![](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/0_Comparison-Image-Lake-Cross-WTP-AprilAugust-2026-2nd-View-1.jpg\")
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