Drought update & reservoir levels
27 July 2010
Current reservoir levels are shown below and are updated weekly:
| |
Actual stock |
Change since last week |
Normal year |
Last year |
| Regional total |
68.6% |
+5.3% |
76.6% |
80.5% |
| North & West Cumbria |
98.6% |
+0.8% |
89.0% |
97.4% |
| Haweswater & Thirlmere |
65.8% |
+8.5% |
65.0% |
74.0% |
| Pennine sources |
54.3% |
+4.3% |
73.0% |
71.7% |
| Dee & Vyrnwy reservoirs |
78.1% |
+4.1% |
85.0% |
88.9% |
2010 has been the driest year we've had in the North West since our rainfall records began 74 years ago. Reservoir levels are now very low, and we have to take steps to ensure that we don't run out of water in the months ahead. That is why we have introduced a hosepipe ban to protect suppplies for essential domestic and business use.
What are we doing about it?
- Moving water around our network
- Commissioning additional supplies
- Fixing more leaks - out on the roads and at your home
- Applying for a permit to take more water from one of our reservoirs
Moving water around our network
Our network of pipes lets us move water right around the region so we can get it to where it's needed most, ensuring it's there when you turn on the tap.
Finding additional supplies
We are currently drawing on existing reserve supplies from underground sources and investigating additional sources within our region e.g re-commissioning some bore holes to tap the natural underground water.
Fixing leaks
We've got extra teams out right now looking for and fixing as many leaks as possible. If you spot a leak on the pavement or public highway, please tell us and we'll do our best to fix it as quickly as we can.
Leaks on household properties are normally the responsibility of the householder but under our repair scheme we may be able to repair your water supply pipes for free.
How can customers help
Use water wisely
We're encouraging everyone to help us save water - often really simple things can make a big difference and will help keep the taps flowing. You can order your FREE save-a-flush, check out some easy water saving tips and learn more about how to use water wisely.
Look out for leaks in our pipes
Our leak detection team out and about trying to locate and mend any leaks that exist on our network. If you spot a leak on the pavement or public highway, please tell us and we'll do our best to fix it as quickly as we can.
Leaks on household properties are normally the responsibility of the householder but under our repair scheme we may be able to repair your water supply pipes for free.
Latest updates
Follow us on Twitter to receive our latest drought updates http://twitter.com/unitedutilities