Wessex Water Imposes Hosepipe Ban Amid Extreme Demand
Millions across four counties face restrictions as region records highest water usage in 50 years.
Callum Smith
Wessex Water will implement a hosepipe ban starting midnight on Tuesday.
The water supply network faces increased pressure due to this record demand and hot conditions; no significant rain is reportedly forecast. While Wessex Water is not running out of water for essential use, the challenge lies in moving water through the network quickly enough to meet these record levels of demand, Jefferson explained.
This strain also affects underground storage reservoirs, which typically replenish quickly with treated water, Jefferson added. The UK has experienced its fifth heatwave of the summer, with the hottest day of the year recorded at 38.1C in Kew Gardens, London.
I could not promise rain for all through the week ahead, but in the south at least, it was looking like the most changeable week seen there, at least since the end of June.
A yellow heat health alert has been extended until 9 am on Tuesday for the South East, South West, and London. Wildfires have reportedly broken out across the UK, including a blaze in Stourbridge that destroyed 19 homes.
Over two-thirds of England and the entirety of Wales are understood to be in official drought. July 2026 was provisionally the driest on record, with southern England experiencing its driest month ever in parts.
The Met Office claims this is the second consecutive summer drought, following the dry spell seen in 2025. Despite current challenges, fresher conditions with possible rain and thunderstorms are anticipated this week.
Tom Morgan commented on the changing weather, stating he could not promise rain for all through the week ahead, but in the south at least, it was looking like the most changeable week seen there, at least since the end of June. The Met Office claims that while the forecast rain may bring some welcome relief to parched land and fire-fighters tackling wildfires, it is unlikely to end widespread drought conditions.
These drought conditions have put severe pressure on wildlife, farmers, transport, emergency services infrastructure, and water resources. Ruth Jefferson expressed gratitude for customer efforts, saying that Wessex Water knew so many of its customers had already been taking steps to save water and the company was incredibly grateful for their support so far this summer, as it makes such a difference.