Water suppliers are asking customers in Essex to "hang up your hose", with one planning a temporary ban.
Thames Water, which supplies water to 15 million customers across London as well as areas such as Loughton, became the latest water company to signal a hosepipe ban in the face of the dry summer.
The water company said: “Given the long-term forecast of dry weather and another forecast of very hot temperatures coming this week, we are planning to announce a temporary use ban in the coming weeks.”
Affinity Water, which provides water to Epping Forest, has ruled out restrictions at this stage but has asked customers to "hang up your hose".
During autumn and winter last year, there wasn't as much rainfall as normal, so our groundwater levels are below average. 🌧️
— Affinity Water 🦆 (@AffinityWater) August 4, 2022
There are no current restrictions, but it's important to use water wisely.
Don't leave us high and dry, see how you can help: https://t.co/Tz6T0CChKm pic.twitter.com/09sNls3Gm8
Last month’s record-breaking heatwave has depleted rivers and it is believed water levels will remain low until October.
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