Thames Water hosepipe ban to continue through autumn
Reservoirs remain critically low despite recent showers, with rainfall significantly below average.
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Named manager quoted and reservoir percentages sourced from Thames Water statements.
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Thames Water has confirmed that its hosepipe ban will continue throughout the autumn, impacting more than 10 million customers across its service area. The company stated that reservoir levels remain substantially below normal expectations for this time of year.
Impact of Dry Summer and Low Rainfall
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The ban, initially introduced on 23 July 2026, was a response to a prolonged dry spell and drought conditions that followed an exceptionally dry summer. Despite recent showers that have brought a more autumnal feel to the region, these have not been sufficient to replenish water supplies. By 6 October, Farmoor Reservoir near Oxford was recorded at 68% storage, while London's reservoir storage stood at 54%. The ground conditions were reported as the driest since 2001, with low groundwater levels and below-average river flows.
Rainfall figures for September showed that the region received only half of its long-term average. By 6 October, rainfall for the month had reached just 1% of the average. Thames Water stressed that the cooler, darker evenings leading into winter do not signify the end of the drought and that substantial rainfall is required to restore water resources before the ban can be lifted.
Customer Actions and Exemptions
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Andrew Tucker, Thames Water's demand reduction manager, urged customers to continue making "small changes" in their daily routines, such as taking shorter showers and turning off taps. He stated that these actions collectively make a significant difference across millions of homes and businesses. The temporary use ban prohibits the use of hosepipes and pressure washers for activities including watering gardens, cleaning vehicles, filling paddling pools, or washing windows. Exemptions are in place for agricultural purposes, livestock welfare, and for customers identified as vulnerable by Thames Water.
Tucker added, "We need everyone to keep saving water where they can, at home, at work and in the garden." He expressed gratitude to customers for their efforts in reducing water demand and reiterated that the ban remains in effect while conditions recover.
Questions this report answers
+Why is the hosepipe ban continuing through autumn?
The hosepipe ban is continuing because Thames Water's reservoirs remain significantly below normal levels for October. Despite recent showers, the rainfall in September was half the average, and October rainfall was only 1% of average by 6 October, meaning water resources are still under pressure after a dry summer.
+When was the hosepipe ban first introduced?
The hosepipe ban was first introduced by Thames Water on 23 July 2026. It was implemented as a measure to conserve water following a record-breaking dry summer and ensuing drought conditions across the region.
+What are the current water storage levels?
As of 6 October 2026, London's reservoir storage was at 54%. Nearby, Farmoor Reservoir, located near Oxford, was at 68% storage. These levels are considered critically low for this time of year.
+What actions are customers asked to take?
Customers are urged to continue making small changes to save water, such as taking shorter showers and turning off taps when not in use. Thames Water states that these collective efforts make a meaningful difference in conserving water resources.
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