Thames Water has imposed an immediate temporary use ban on hosepipes for millions of customers, following three consecutive heatwaves and the driest spring on record. The ban officially takes effect just after midnight on Thursday, July 23, but the company is urging households to stop using hosepipes immediately.
Record Water Demand
Water usage in the Thames Valley and Home Counties has surged to 10% above normal levels, while Londoners are consuming 7% more water than usual as temperatures soar. The ban prohibits jet-washing cars, topping up garden hot tubs, and using paddling pools or lawn sprinklers.
Nevil Muncaster, director of strategic water resources at Thames Water, said: "We would not be taking this step unless it was necessary to protect water supplies for everyone and the environment. While there is enough water for essential use, we need to reduce non-essential outdoor demand to keep taps flowing."
Urgent Appeal to Customers
Muncaster thanked customers who have already reduced usage: "Many customers have already reduced their water use and that support has made a difference. Thank you to everyone who has already changed their daily habits." The company said teams are working around the clock to repair leaking pipes and maintain supply, with restrictions to be lifted as soon as conditions allow.
The ban applies to all Thames Water fresh water customers, but those with waste-only services are exempt.
More Heat on the Way
The announcement comes as forecasters predict another heat blast, with temperatures potentially reaching 32°C on Friday, July 31. Weather maps from WX Charts show scorching conditions sweeping in from Europe, affecting at least ten major towns and cities across Britain.
