Before the rain fell last weekend, with more forecast over the coming days, the recent sunny spell had left the islands officially in drought for a short while.
While Guernsey Water has recently said its main reservoir is almost full with no risk of a water shortage there, Alderney has a much more limited supply of drinking water so restrictions have been brought in to protect it.
In a statement announcing the sprinkler ban, the utility said:
“Alderney’s Water Board is reminding residents and gardeners that sprinklers should not be used either at night or in the daytime until further notice.
“The ban follows a long period of dry, sunny weather with many people spending more time in their gardens as a result of lockdown restrictions. This has caused a spike in water usage.
“Sprinklers use excessive water and Alderney has a limited supply which is treated to a very high standard.
“The Water Board asks residents and gardeners to use water carefully and use only a domestic hand-held garden hose.”