Full Breakdown
Thames Water Implements Nationwide Hosepipe Ban Amid Record Heat
7/21/2026, 10:22:53 PM
Thames Water Announces Hosepipe Ban
Thames Water will prohibit the use of hosepipes for garden watering, car cleaning, filling paddling pools, swimming pools, or cleaning windows. The restriction takes effect on Thursday and applies to all 10.1 million customers receiving drinking water from the company across Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Surrey, the Thames Valley, Greater London and surrounding areas.
Background and Context
The ban follows an “exceptionally warm and dry spring,” during which the service area recorded only 40 % of its average rainfall. Temperatures have also risen, with more days at or above 34 °C than ever previously recorded. Thames Water officials warned that without curbing non-essential water use, supplies could be jeopardised for both residents and the environment.
Data & Statistics
- Customers affected: 10.1 million (drinking-water customers)
- Rainfall: 40 % of long-term average
- Temperature anomaly: Record-high days >= 34 °C
- Current water use: 10 % above normal in the Thames Valley and Home Counties; 7 % above normal in London
- Additional consumption: Approximately 100 million litres per day above typical levels
Official Statements & Responses
Thames Water explained that the ban is a preventative measure to safeguard water availability. The company highlighted the surge in daily consumption and the unprecedented weather conditions as drivers for the decision. It emphasized that the restriction is limited to non-essential uses and will remain in place until water levels stabilise.
Verbatim Quotes
“We would not be taking this step unless it was necessary to protect water supplies for everyone and the environment.” — Nevil Muncaster, director of strategic water resources
