Tobermory residents urged to take short showers amid 'extremely low' water supplies

Residents of a town in Mull have been urged to take short showers amid “extremely low” water supplies.

Scottish Water is urging people in Tobermory to use water as efficiently as possible in homes, businesses and gardens and help the utility to protect resources and maintain normal supplies across the burgh.

It comes after the driest start to the year across Scotland since 1964, with only 59% of the long-term average rainfall from January to April.

The company said water demand has increased further during the recent dry weather in Scotland, particularly in the past week in Tobermory.

As a result, the water storage tanks are at an “extremely low level” and the two Treatment Works that feed the Island are at capacity.

Operations teams from the public utility are on the ground and tankers will carry water from Oban to ensure supply is maintained.

Teams also found a burst on the A848 and will work repair this as quickly as possible to maintain network resilience.

It is urging locals, visitors and businesses on Tobermory to help save water by:

Using water efficiently in the garden and outdoor spaces by using a watering can instead of a garden hose where possible and avoiding using sprinklers
Taking shorter showers
Turning the tap off when brushing teeth
Using washing machines and dishwashers only when fully loaded
Using a bucket and sponge rather than a hose to wash the car.

Ross Barclay, Scottish Water’s operations team manager, said the company was working hard to maintain normal supplies.

“We are asking customers and businesses to use water as wisely as possible while we deal with this pressing issue.

“Water is always worth saving and by taking simple steps to reduce the volume used around businesses, at home and in the garden we can make our water go even further and help maintain normal supplies.”