Guernsey's Water reserves remain healthy whilst absolute drought is declared

As "absolute drought" was declared across the Channel Islands yesterday, Guernsey Water has confirmed its water reserves are currently at a healthy level.

The utility stated that the Island's water reserves are monitored on a weekly basis, with their current capacity measured at 92.7% full, in line with the ten year average for the period, despite lower rainfall.

Mark Walker, Guernsey Water's Capital Delivery Manager said "As part of our recently released Water Resources & Drought Management Plan, we monitor water resources closely. This allows us to act appropriately in line with our reserves, carrying out internal changes to reduce impact on customers and providing us with a guide to when any wider measures may be required."

Guernsey Water advised that an absolute drought, defined as 15 consecutive days of no rainfall, is not of direct concern despite the fact that much of the water it relies on comes from surface water sources like streams. Drought measures within the utility are instead dictated by the Islands water resource stocks.

Mr Walker said, "Although we are not overly concerned at this time, we do remind Islanders to always use water wisely, particularly through the summer period when it can be tempting to water lawns."

Water saving tips can be found here and Guernsey Water's Water Resources & Drought Management Plan Summary can be found  here [1Mb]

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