Hosepipe Bans Announced as UK Prepares for Heatwave
Hosepipe bans have been issued across the UK as Brits brace for another heatwave. The Met Office has forecast a prolonged spell of hot weather for many regions, with temperatures beginning to rise this weekend.
A week-long yellow warning from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is in force until 8pm on July 11, covering the East Midlands, East of England, South East, South West, and the West Midlands.
Southern Water Imposes Ban from July 10
In response to the warmest spring on record followed by a record-breaking heatwave, Southern Water has issued a hosepipe ban from 12.01am on July 10 in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. The warm weather has left river levels 25% lower than expected for this time of year.
The company stated that the River Test has lost a third of its water within the last month, putting pressure on their ability to treat and supply water. A spokesperson said: “We recognise that customers with medical needs may still need to use a hosepipe. Customers on our priority services register with medical or mobility needs, including blue badge holders and those on our WaterSure tariff, are exempt. Anything you can do to reduce or avoid hosepipe use would be greatly appreciated.”
Ban to Remain Until Water Supplies Recover
Southern Water says the ban will be removed as soon as possible, but added: “This can only happen when there’s enough water in our reservoirs, rivers and underground aquifers to meet demand.”
Kent Residents Also Under Temporary Ban
Kent residents were also under a temporary ban, which South East Water put into place on Friday. Hosepipe bans are designed to stop customers engaging in non-essential use, including watering gardens, filling paddling pools, hot tubs, swimming pools, ponds or fountains, and washing cars, patios or windows.
