A major incident has been declared after 30,000 homes in Kent and Sussex were left without water, with some residents experiencing disruptions for up to five days. Areas affected include Tunbridge Wells, Canterbury, Maidstone, and East Grinstead.
South East Water attributed the crisis to cold weather and Storm Goretti, which caused burst pipes and reduced water treatment capacity. Schools and libraries across the region closed for the day due to lack of running water, while Queen Victoria Hospital in East Grinstead moved some appointments online.
The Kent county council leader, Linden Kemkaran, confirmed the major incident declaration, citing increased impact and preparations for further disruption. The prime minister's spokesperson called the situation 'completely unacceptable', noting daily emergency meetings with South East Water and local officials.
Water Minister Emma Hardy expressed concern and held meetings with water companies and local resilience forums to restore supplies, prioritising vulnerable customers. South East Water apologised, stating that storage tanks are low due to leaks and burst mains, affecting 16,500 properties in East Grinstead and others across Kent.
