Hosepipe Ban in the South West as Heat Returns
A hosepipe ban has been imposed across the South West after a surge in demand strained supplies, as forecasters warned that scorching temperatures and a fresh risk of drought would return next week. It adds to restrictions already affecting tens of millions after the driest July on record. Water companies urged customers to conserve supplies.
The new ban extends the reach of restrictions that have spread across much of the country during a summer of record heat and drought, with reservoirs and rivers running low. The prospect of another heatwave threatens to deepen the shortage and heighten the wildfire risk just as some regions had hoped for respite. Farmers have warned that the parched conditions are damaging crops and will push up food prices. The strain has renewed anger at the water industry over leaks and underinvestment. Watch whether more suppliers impose bans and how high temperatures climb next week.