Islanders urged to save water as heatwave pushes demand to highest level since drought

Jersey residents are being encouraged to reduce unnecessary water use after demand soared during last month’s heatwave, reaching its highest point since the island’s 2022 drought.

Jersey Water said 159 million litres (around 35 million gallons) of water was used in a single week in June - almost 5% of the island’s stored supply — as temperatures climbed to a record 39.2C (103F) on Thursday 25 June.

The company said reservoirs at Queen’s Valley and Val de la Mare remain in a strong position, currently holding 89% of capacity. However, it warned that levels could fall quickly if another spell of extreme weather arrives.

A Jersey Water spokesperson said supplies were limited, explaining that even when reservoirs are full, the island has enough stored water for around 120 days.

“Every drop counts,” the spokesperson said, urging households to avoid waste and make small changes to their daily routines.

The company added that its desalination plant at La Rosière, Corbiere, is available to increase supplies if required. However, it said reducing demand now would be the fastest way to protect resources and help prevent possible restrictions later in the summer or autumn.

Residents are being advised to take simple steps, including reusing water from washing fruit and vegetables to water gardens and turning off taps while brushing their teeth.