Read more: Ireland’s massive thaw means thousands left without water

Water restriction are being imposed around the country as water authorities struggle to repair leaks. Emergency teams are working around the clock as almost every county in the country is suffering from water shortages.

The Department of the Environment has warned that a reduced supply of water is inevitable. Principal adviser for water services, Gerry Galvin told Ireland’s national broadcaster RTE, “I would appeal to people to be patient during this very difficult time as local authorities attempt to identify and repair the many leaks that have occurred in the public system.

“We have just come through some of the coldest weather in decades and the resultant thaw has caused very serious disruption to the water system nationwide.”

Standpipes and water tanks are being dispatched to the worst affected areas. Mr Galvin warned that engineers are looking for major leaks.

It is now feared that a full supply of water will not be restored until the New Year. Widespread cut-offs will be enforced until midday today. In some parts of Ireland residents have not been without water for eight days.

Read more: Ireland’s massive thaw means thousands left without water