Hosepipe Ban Hits 10 Million Amid Heatwave Crisis

Thames Water is implementing a temporary use ban, commonly known as a hosepipe ban, for more than 10 million customers. This restriction will officially commence at 12:01 AM on Thursday, July 22, 2026, though the company is encouraging immediate voluntary adherence.

The ban covers customers in London, the Thames Valley, and the home counties, prohibiting non-essential uses of hosepipes such as watering gardens, cleaning vehicles, or filling paddling pools. This action is a direct response to sustained hot weather, following three heatwaves and the driest spring on record for England and Wales.

Large areas of southern, central, and eastern England are nearing official drought status, according to the Environment Agency. Thames Water reports a 10% increase in water usage in the Thames Valley and Home Counties, and a 7% increase in London, amounting to an additional 100 million litres daily.

This ban follows similar restrictions already in place by other water companies in southern England, including Southern Water, Cambridge Water, Affinity Water, and South East Water. Several reservoirs are at notably low levels, and river levels are significantly below average for this time of year.

Nevil Muncaster of Thames Water emphasized the necessity of the ban to protect essential water supplies and the environment, highlighting that reducing non-essential outdoor water use is crucial. The company will continue to monitor the situation and lift restrictions when it is deemed safe.