Welsh Water issues warning as hot weather forecasted

Powys County Times

03-05-2025

Welsh Water has asked people to be mindful of their water usage as the country prepares for a hot start to May.
March 2025 was recorded as the fourth driest March in Welsh history, with rainfall 30 per cent lower than in 2022, when parts of Wales last faced water usage restrictions.
Despite reservoir water levels being slightly below what is expected for this time of year, with water resources in a good position across the country, there is a warning for customers to be careful of their use of water.
The company has increased production at its water treatment works to keep up with high demand.
The 61 treatment works produced an additional 7 million litres of water on some of the warmest days this week, equivalent to filling around 35,000 extra bathtubs each day.
Welsh Water is also working to reduce the amount of water lost from the system, with teams fixing around 700 leaks each week.
Customers have been asked to report any leaks they spot to the company.
Over the next five years, the company plans to reduce leakage by a quarter, with around £400 million set aside for pipe replacement and leakage repairs.
Welsh Water customers can also benefit from the Cartref team's free leaking loo repairs.
These home water efficiency visits are carried out by qualified plumbers to help reduce customers' water consumption.
Ian Christie, managing director of water, asset planning, and capital delivery at Welsh Water, said: "With the low rainfall levels, we are working around the clock to make sure we do everything we can to get as much treated water into the system and our teams are out and about fixing 700 leaks per week.
"Although reservoir levels are at a comfortable level currently, we're asking customers for their help so that we can make sure the water reaches everyone.
"It's essential that we help preserve the supplies in our reservoirs and rivers after what has been a dry spring.
"Our advice is simple for customers, use the water you need but avoid wasting it."
Welsh Water has also provided some tips to help customers save water.
These include not leaving the tap running while washing hands or brushing teeth, taking a shower instead of a bath, and only running the washing machine and dishwasher when they are full.
Other tips include not filling the paddling pool to the top and using the leftover water on the garden plants, and not using a sprinkler on the lawn to keep it green, as the colour will return once it rains.