Millions Face New Hosepipe Ban Amid UK Drought

A hosepipe ban has been introduced by Essex and Suffolk Water across 14 areas, impacting an additional two million customers. This measure is in response to an extreme summer characterized by high temperatures and minimal rainfall, which has placed significant pressure on water resources.

England is officially in a drought, with dry conditions exacerbated by an extremely dry July and successive heatwaves. This has led to increased demand for water from customers in the affected regions as they attempt to stay cool. Reservoir levels have consequently fallen below average for this time of year.

Customers are urged to cease non-essential water use, including watering gardens, washing vehicles, and filling pools. The restrictions are essential to protect rivers and wildlife, and to safeguard water supplies for everyone as the dry weather continues. This ban affects approximately 23 million customers nationwide.