SEVERN Trent has recorded its highest-ever water demand as customers are warned a hosepipe ban could be introduced for the first time in almost 30 years.
The company says nearly 2.4 billion litres of water have been used every day in recent days, with demand continuing long after the usual evening peak.
Hot and dry weather in Worcestershire
The hot weather has been tough, especially considering that UK homes are built to trap heat, forcing families to cool off via activities such as watering gardens and paddling pools, which require large amounts of water.
However, the Met Office has forecast daily high temperatures to remain between 26c and 29c for the next seven days alongside no forecast showers in the same period, meaning little water to replenish reservoirs.
As a result, Severn Trent have warned that, despite significant investment meaning there have been no water restrictions for 30 years, people will need to make changes to avoid a hosepipe ban.
A Severn Trent spokesperson said: “We’ve seen the highest demand ever for water in a single day on Saturday 11 July.
“Our teams are working around the clock, treating more water, moving supplies across the region and fixing leaks at record levels. But we need customers’ help too.
“There are no restrictions in place, and we want to keep it that way and with no rain in the forecast, we’d love everyone’s support to help.
“Small changes made by lots of people can have a huge impact. By using water wisely now, customers can help us keep taps flowing and avoid the need for further measures if the hot weather continues.”
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When was the last Severn Trent hosepipe ban?
The last hosepipe ban issued by Severn Trent was in 1995, a record it says it is ‘really proud of’.
The water company has advised customers to reduce water usage by using a watering can instead of a sprinkler, letting lawns recover naturally, reusing water from paddling pools on plants, and running washing machines and dishwashers with full loads.
