Westmeath residents asked to conserve water due to 'unseasonably dry' weather

Irish Water has urged Westmeath people to conserve water because 'unseasonably dry weather conditions' have led to 'historically low water levels in Lough Owel for this time of year.'

Moate, Horseleap, Streamstown and Ballymore are among the areas where residents are being asked to use as little water as possible 'for the foreseeable future.'

Other areas included in the request are: Mullingar, Ballinacarrigy, Rathowen, Street, Lismacaffrey, Rathconrath, Killucan, Coralstown, Kinnegad, Milltownpass, Rochfortbridge, Tyrrellspass, Kilbeggan, Ballinagore and Gaybrook.

Irish Water is also asking people to report any leaks they see on the public network by calling its customer care helpline on 1850 278 278.

In a statement issued this afternoon, Irish Water said it 'would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused and would like to thank the public in advance for their co-operation.

'We will continue to provide updates on the water storage levels at the reservoir and advise customers when they can return to normal usage,' it said.

Irish Water's tips for conserving water include making sure not to leave the tap running when brushing your teeth, fix dripping taps, cisterns or pipes, take showers instead of baths, and spend less time in the shower.