Second Water Main Burst Hits Aherla as Uisce Éireann Crews Race Against Time

Residents across west the town west of Cork City are facing a second day of water disruption after another major burst struck the Aherla network this morning, just two days after crews completed repairs on Saturday's initial break.

The latest burst is affecting water supply to thousands of customers across Waterfall, Bandon Road, Ballincollig West, Ovens, Killumney, Aherla and surrounding areas. Uisce Éireann crews are currently on site working to restore full service, with repairs expected to be completed by 5pm today.

Michael Bell, Water Network Operations Manager at Uisce Éireann, acknowledged the frustration facing local residents. "We understand the inconvenience of an unplanned outage and we thank customers for their support while our works continue," he said, assuring customers that every effort is being made to restore supply as quickly as possible.

Once repairs are completed this evening, it will typically take two to three hours for normal water supply to return to all affected customers. However, residents at the end of the network or on higher ground may experience longer delays as the system recharges.

Vulnerable customers who have registered with Uisce Éireann receive direct communications for planned and unplanned outages lasting more than four hours. Registration is available through the Vulnerable Customers page on the Uisce Éireann website.

Customers can stay updated on the situation through the Uisce Éireann website, X channels @IWCare and @IrishWater, or by calling the 24/7 customer care helpline on 1800 278 278. A free text service providing real-time local updates is also available by signing up with an Eircode and mobile number at the Text Updates page.