Water reserves fall as dry conditions continue across Guernsey
- July recorded just one-eighth of expected rainfall, with most falling on a single day
- Water reserves fell by 89 million litres in the final week of July, the largest weekly drop this year
- Daily consumption averaged 14.2 million litres in the last fortnight, 700,000 litres above forecast
- Storage levels are 4% lower than last year and 7% below the 10-year average
- No hosepipe ban currently being considered, but residents urged to conserve water
Guernsey Water has urged islanders to continue using water carefully after July recorded exceptionally low rainfall and the largest weekly fall in reservoir storage levels so far this year.
July saw just one-eighth of the rainfall normally expected for the month, with most of it falling on a single day. Continued dry conditions, combined with higher-than-forecast demand, have placed increasing pressure on the island's water reserves.
During the final week of July, reserves fell by 89 million litres, the largest single weekly drop recorded this year.
Daily water consumption averaged 14.2 million litres in the last fortnight, around 700,000 litres higher than Guernsey Water's usual summertime forecast. At the same time, stream collection remained extremely low, with just 11 million litres collected during the week, half the amount gathered the previous week.
Storage levels are currently 4% lower than at the same point last year, equivalent to around 160 million litres or approximately 11 days' worth of water at current demand levels. Reserves are also 5% below the five-year average and 7% below the 10-year average.
Water Quality Risk Manager Daffyd Griffiths said: "The prolonged dry weather means we're seeing very little replenishment of our reservoirs from streams and demand remains higher than we would normally expect because of the prolonged hot and dry conditions. Although a hosepipe ban is not currently being considered, the situation underlines why every drop counts."
He added: "Simple actions taken by individuals and households can make a real difference when multiplied across the Island. Whether that's avoiding unnecessary hosepipe use, taking shorter showers or being mindful of day-to-day water use, those small changes help us stretch supplies for longer while these dry conditions continue."
Forecasts currently show little indication of significant rainfall in the near future, extending what has already been an exceptionally dry period.
Guernsey Water says it is continuing to respond to leaks as quickly as possible and is encouraging members of the public to report any they spot. Suspected leaks can be reported by calling 229500.
The utility is asking residents to continue following water-saving advice wherever possible.
Mr Griffiths added: "Your lawn will recover, your car can stay dusty for a little longer and small changes around the home really do add up. Every one of us has a role to play in protecting the island's water resources, particularly when dry conditions persist for an extended period."
Q&A
Q: How much rainfall did Guernsey receive in July?
A: July recorded just one-eighth of the rainfall normally expected for the month, with most of it falling on a single day.
Q: Is a hosepipe ban being implemented?
A: No, a hosepipe ban is not currently being considered, but Guernsey Water is urging residents to use water carefully and avoid unnecessary hosepipe use.
Q: How can residents report water leaks?
A: Suspected leaks can be reported by calling Guernsey Water on 229500.
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