Thames Water has implemented a hosepipe ban affecting 16 million customers, citing an "exceptionally warm and dry spring" that has led to record-breaking demand. The restrictions, which come into effect on Thursday, prohibit the use of hosepipes for various non-essential activities.
Under the ban, customers are forbidden from using hosepipes to water gardens or allotments, clean vehicles, fill paddling or swimming pools, or wash windows. The company stated that its region has experienced 40% of its average rainfall and has seen more days with temperatures at or above 34 degrees Celsius (93.2 degrees Fahrenheit) than ever before.
Nevil Muncaster, director of strategic water resources at Thames Water, emphasized the necessity of the measure. "We would not be taking this step unless it was necessary to protect water supplies for everyone and the environment," he said.
The ban applies to all customers supplied with drinking water by Thames Water, covering significant portions of Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Kent, Surrey, the Thames Valley, Greater London, and surrounding areas.
The company reported that water usage is currently 10% above normal in the Thames Valley and Home Counties, and 7% above normal in London. This equates to an additional 100 million liters of water per day. Muncaster noted that recent heatwaves have contributed to sustained high demand. "While there is enough water for essential use, we need to reduce non-essential outdoor demand to keep taps flowing," he explained.
Thames Water acknowledged the efforts of customers who have already reduced their water consumption. "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," Muncaster added. He also confirmed that company teams are working around the clock to maintain water supply, repair leaks, and assist customers. The situation will be closely monitored, and restrictions will be lifted as soon as it is deemed safe to do so.