Thames Water announces hosepipe ban for millions
Thames Water has implemented a hosepipe ban for 16 million customers following an exceptionally dry spring and multiple heatwaves. The measure aims to protect water supplies and the environment during a period of high demand.
Why it matters
The ban reflects the growing pressure on water infrastructure due to climate change and extreme weather patterns in the UK.
Image source, Catherine Falls Commercial via Getty Images Image caption, The water operator said the three heatwaves contributed to the ban
Thames Water has announced a hosepipe ban affecting 16 million people after an "exceptionally warm and dry spring".
The restrictions mean, from Thursday, hosepipes should not be used for watering gardens or allotments, cleaning cars, filling paddling pools or swimming pools, or cleaning windows.
The water company said its region had seen 40% of average rainfall and more days at or above 34C this year than ever recorded before.
Nevil Muncaster, director of strategic water resources, said: "We would not be taking this step unless it was necessary to protect water supplies for everyone and the environment."
The ban applies to all customers that Thames Water supplies with drinking water and comes into effect on Thursday.
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