Water usage in Wales exceeds 1 billion litres amid third heatwave
Welsh Water asks for public’s help to manage excessive demand
Welsh Water is urging people to reduce their water consumption as the nation battles soaring temperatures and increased usage during a third heatwave.
The utility company reports that water demand has surged by 17% above normal levels, with usage consistently high throughout the day and night.
From 9th July, daily demand has hit over 1 billion litres, surpassing the usual 850 megalitres with peaks reaching 1,000 megalitres.
Welsh Water is taking measures to maintain supply, including increasing water production, fixing leaks, and deploying tankers to move water across the network.
Kit Wilson, Welsh Water's Chief Customer Officer, highlighted the challenge: "The extreme heat and prolonged dry weather in this third heatwave of the year means people are using much more water and for much longer throughout the day."
Wilson noted that despite round-the-clock operations, the company needs public cooperation to manage demand effectively.
Simple consumer actions such as using watering cans, reusing paddling pool water, and ensuring appliances operate with full loads can make a significant impact, according to Welsh Water.
Efforts to manage and respond to the increased demand are supported by statistics showing 200 burst mains repaired and 995 leakage repairs completed in the past fortnight, along with 30 tankers and 24/7 operations.
These initiatives aim to preserve resources for communities and protect the environment during this unprecedented heatwave.