Rising temperatures have pushed water demand to record levels across the Midlands, with people reaching for paddling pools, watering cans and cold drinks.
Severn Trent has been producing an extra 400 million litres of water each day since Tuesday, representing around 20 per cent more than usual, as temperatures approach 40°C.
Doug Clarke, water resources lead at Severn Trent, said: “This is the type of weather my teams plan for all year round, and we’re producing record amounts of water to help keep the Midlands hydrated during the heat.”
With schools closed and more people at home, the company says demand is staying high later into the evenings, partly due to people staying up for World Cup matches and carrying out household tasks when it’s cooler.
Severn Trent is advising residents to reuse water wherever possible, including covering paddling pools and using the water for gardens after use.
Mr Clarke said: “Covering the pool and using a bucket to rinse feet instead of a tap are simple ways to make the most of the water. “When you’re finished, it can easily go on flowers to.”
Some rain is forecast for the weekend and Severn Trent has teams on standby to tackle any issues in the network, supported by nearly 100 tankers if needed.
Reservoirs are currently just under 90 per cent full, but the company stresses it takes around 12 hours to treat and deliver water to households.
Mr Clarke said: “Naturally, in this heat a lot of water is being used very quickly, and we are working hard to meet that demand and so our customers can keep safely hydrated and cool in the heat.
“Water is so precious, and heatwaves like this highlight it’s importance of making sure people have what they need to keep cool, and hydrated.”