Thames Water warns of 'exceptionally high demand' but does not announce hosepipe ban for Aylesbury
Thames Water, the supply service for most of Buckinghamshire, is warning its customers that it is facing “exceptionally high demand” amid the ongoing heatwave.
This afternoon, the service provided an update on the pressures it is facing while the UK is experiencing days of extreme heat.
However, the water company did not announce a hosepipe ban for its customers. Elsewhere in southern England, a hosepipe ban has been introduced in Kent.
Andrew Tucker, water demand reduction manager at Thames Water said: “We want everyone to enjoy the warmer weather and stay hydrated, but we have also seen big spikes in demand as temperatures have risen over several days, particularly from outdoor water use.
“All of our water is treated to drinking quality standards and comes from local sources, so using it efficiently in the garden really helps reduce the amount we take from the environment.
“Customers can help us keep water flowing by using water wisely, particularly during this hot, dry period when we are seeing demand is high.”
An extreme heat warning, issued by the Met Office, remains active in Aylesbury until 9pm this evening. The Government body warns that this level of heat is likely to impact the population. “The heat will be accompanied by high humidity, exacerbating the potential for discomfort and health impacts,” the service warns.
Thames Water is advising people in Aylesbury and its wider region to avoid using hoses and sprinklers. Residents are also advised to avoid filling paddling pools, to only complete essential plant watering, and turn off taps when they are not in use.
An amber weather warning is in place for Aylesbury tomorrow, the run of extreme heat is set to end on Sunday where temperatures are expected to reach a maximum of 24C.