Devon water supply in ‘crisis’ as locals urged to follow steps to protect vulnerable residents

Devon’s water supply remains in “crisis” as locals are urged to cut down their usage to protect vulnerable residents.

Despite recent rainfall from Storm Austen and Storm Boelo, parts of the county remain in severe drought following the UK’s hottest and driest summer on record – with some reservoirs at “critically low levels”.

According to Devon County Council, a hosepipe ban remains in place but further sustained rain is now needed for dwindling supplies to recover. If the situation deteriorates, the authorities warn that some homes could temporarily lose their piped water supply.

“This would be particularly difficult for people who need water for medical or personal care, or who cannot easily collect and carry alternative supplies,” the council said in a statement on Friday.

Additional support for vulnerable households is being provided through the free Priority Services Register, but local residents and businesses have also been told to check their premises for leaks and reduce avoidable water use.

The council has asked locals to take shorter showers where possible, turn off the tap while brushing their teeth and run washing machines and dishwashers will full loads and skip the pre-rinse cycle.

Residents have also been told to arrange repairs if they spot any dripping taps or leaking toilets in their home.

Those who need additional water due to medical conditions, disabilities or caring responsibilities should continue using the amount of water they need. The council says that drinking, hygiene and essential care “must remain priority”.

South West Water is also calling on households and businesses across parts of Cornwall and Devon to reduce unnecessary water use and help preserve supplies over the weeks ahead.

“Rainfall is helping, however, recovery depends on how much falls, where it falls and whether it continues,” the water company said on 28 October. “Heavy rain in one community does not necessarily mean the sources supplying its drinking water have recovered.”

“Devonians always pull together at times of crisis,” Council leader Julian Brazil said on Friday. “Drought is a slow crisis, but we all need to act now to avoid restrictions which will impact lives and businesses.”

The councillor urged locals to consider how water is “vital” to elderly people and those with limited mobility.

“Cutting your own water use now can help avoid the need for restrictions on their usage,” he added. “If they aren’t on the Priority Services Register organised by utility companies, then urge them to apply or do so on their behalf.”