Thames Water has called on its 15 million customers to use water wisely as a heatwave grips the UK, but has stopped short of imposing a hosepipe ban. The company said demand for water is at its highest in more than 25 years, with reservoir levels falling below average.
In a statement on Monday, Thames Water noted that nine of the last 11 months have been drier than average, and underground aquifers and river flows are lower than expected. The Met Office confirmed that July was the driest since 1935.
While other water firms have introduced hosepipe bans, Thames Water said it has a statutory drought plan in place and is focusing on encouraging customers to conserve supplies. The company warned that if rainfall does not improve in coming months, further restrictions may be necessary.
Thames Water advised customers to take shorter showers, noting that an average shower uses 10 litres of water per minute. The company emphasised that at peak times, demand can outstrip treatment capacity, making water conservation essential to maintain supplies for all.
