Following one of the driest springs in recent years, along with three official heatwaves, record-breaking temperatures, and consistently high demand, Thames Water is implementing a Temporary Use Ban (TUB), commonly referred to as a hosepipe ban, for all customers receiving drinking water from the company.
This ban will take effect at 00:01 BST on Thursday, July 23, 2026, and will prohibit customers in the designated areas from using hosepipes for non-essential purposes, including watering gardens, washing cars, filling paddling pools, or topping up hot tubs. Thames Water encourages customers to adhere to these restrictions in advance of the official implementation date. Water consumption has remained unusually high during the recent spell of extreme heat. Currently, demand is approximately 10% above normal levels throughout the Thames Valley and Home Counties, and 7% higher than usual in London.
On average, customers are consuming an extra 100 million liters of water daily across London and the Thames Valley, which is akin to adding the total water usage of all homes in Manchester to the company’s system. During peak usage times, the water is being consumed faster than it can be treated and distributed in certain areas, further straining local resources.
The company is now moving forward with the next phase of its drought strategy to safeguard both customer supplies and the environment.
Nevil Muncaster, Director of Strategic Water Resources at Thames Water, stated: “We would not implement this measure unless it was essential for protecting water supplies for everyone and the environment. The recent heatwaves, combined with a very dry spring and summer, have resulted in sustained high demand. While there is sufficient water for essential uses, we must decrease non-essential outdoor usage to ensure a steady supply.
“Many customers have already begun to reduce their water consumption, and that cooperation has made a significant difference. We appreciate everyone who has adjusted their daily routines. Our teams are working around the clock to maintain water flow, repair leaks, and assist customers. We will monitor the situation closely and lift restrictions as soon as it is safe to do so.”
This spring, the Thames Water region experienced only 40% of the average rainfall and has faced three instances of extreme heat. The hot weather is expected to persist, with the UK having already recorded nine days of temperatures reaching 34°C or higher, surpassing the previous records set in 1976 and 2020. While Thames Water prepares for dry spells and increased summer demand, the scale and duration of the recent usage are significantly affecting water resources.
In London, customers are using an average of 475 million liters more water each week than is typical for this time of year, while demand in the Thames Valley is about 186 million liters higher weekly.
Customers are advised to continue using water for essential purposes such as drinking, cooking, washing, and hygiene. Buckets and watering cans remain permissible, and there are exemptions in place for situations where water usage is necessary for health and safety or for customers with significant mobility challenges.
Source: Thames Water
