South East Water imposes hosepipe ban as UK heatwave hits record highs

Record-breaking temperatures across the United Kingdom, with a provisional outdoor high of 36.1 °C in Gosport, prompted water companies to curb usage. South East Water introduced an official hosepipe ban covering most of Kent and advising residents in Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire and Sussex to pause hose use, with fines of up to £1,000 for violations. The ban, set to take effect from July 3 but urged to be obeyed immediately, aims to protect supplies as demand surged 56 million litres above the June average.

Other regional suppliers issued voluntary advisories. Wessex Water told customers to limit use, citing that grass can recover after dry spells, while Affinity Water and Thames Water urged the public to use water wisely. The Met Office issued a red heat warning for London and surrounding areas, and an amber warning across much of England and Wales, highlighting severe health risks from sustained high temperatures and “tropical nights.”