According to Jersey Met Office, the Island is now officially in a period of drought with no rainfall recorded for two weeks. Jersey Water’s reservoir levels are currently at 93%, slightly below normal for this time of year.  However, as summer approaches and with the possibility of further periods of below average rainfall, Jersey Water are reminding customers of the mutual benefits of reducing the unnecessary consumption of water.

Helier Smith, Chief Executive says “At this time of year, as the sun comes out, it is common to see an increase in the consumption of water around the home and in the garden. Activities such as watering the garden, washing the car or power washing can consume significant volumes of water.  We would encourage customers to think about their water usage.  A garden hose can use around 1,000 litres of water per hour – enough water to supply a family of four for three days.

“Our aim is to develop a wider understanding of the benefits of water efficiency and to help our customers reduce their water bills by being more aware of the water they are using. Small changes in habits can make a significant difference; saving our customers money and reducing the overall demand for water.

“Final commissioning and testing of the desalination plant upgrade will commence next week with a run of up to 30 days. Water produced by the plant will top up reservoir water levels.  A further run of up to 60 days is planned for later in the year before the upgrade project is completed.

As an Island with limited underground reserves of water and no links to external water networks, we rely on rainfall for most of the mains water supplied. The supply of water in the Island is therefore vulnerable to periods of low rainfall or drought.