During the current hot weather, demand for water is higher than usual. Increased usage puts pressure on our network and can lead to issues such as bursts and low pressure. Dry ground conditions also increase the likelihood of burst water mains.

Our teams are working very hard during this record-breaking weather to optimise our water network’s performance and keep everyone’s taps running.

Last year, our region experienced the driest spring and summer since 1976, with the warmest summer on record in the UK. This meant many of our water resources were at low levels heading into winter 2025/26. Although autumn and winter rainfall helped replenish most supplies, some sources remain below normal as we enter the summer. So far, spring 2026 is following a similar pattern and is likely to be among the five driest on record.

Staying safe while swimming

Although it may seem appealing to take a dip in our reservoirs during this hot weather, they are operational sites and can be extremely dangerous, even for the strongest swimmers. We’d like to remind customers to please take care if they're swimming in this hot weather, and head to one of our region's award-winning designated bathing waters.

How customers can help

Our customers are already among the most water-efficient in the UK, and we’re grateful for their efforts. However, during periods like this, we’re asking for continued support to use water wisely.

Our teams work around the clock to treat and supply over one billion litres of drinking water every day. By using a little less water now, customers can help us reduce strain on the network and avoid potential interruptions – helping ensure there’s enough water for their communities.

It’s quick and easy to check for issues in your area and keep up to date or let us know if you spot a problem here.

Easy ways to use less water

• Ditch the hosepipe: A hosepipe uses around five times more water than a watering can. So a simple switch can keep your plants healthy without overwatering them.
• Love your brown lawn: Your lawn is tougher than you think and can easily survive a few days of sunshine. If it desperately needs a drink, make sure to reuse rain or bathwater rather than wasting your drinking water.
• Reuse the pool: Paddling pools use a lot of water. You can easily use less water by not filling it up completely and by scooping out any bugs and leaves before covering it with a fitted bed sheet to keep it fresh for another use.
• Hold off washing your car or patio: Please pack away the pressure washer until the hot weather’s over. Washing a car, patio or decking uses a lot of clean, treated water.
• Make your water work twice as hard: If you’re rinsing food for dinner or a BBQ, don’t let it drain away. Instead collect it in a bowl or jug and use it to feed your indoor or garden plants.

You can find more information about how to save water here.