Water levels in English reservoirs reach a ten-year low, prompting experts to recommend restrictions on hosepipe usage.

England’s reservoirs have plummeted to their lowest levels in over a decade, triggering calls for immediate hosepipe bans from experts. In June, reservoir levels averaged 76% across the country, plummeting below the levels witnessed during the severe drought of 2022 when they stood at 77%. The ongoing hot weather has significantly increased water use, with little rainfall to replenish the reservoirs. Authorities have been slow to implement hosepipe bans, concerned about customer satisfaction ratings, yet certain regions like Yorkshire have introduced restrictions due to extremely low water levels. Additionally, the dry conditions are affecting food production, as farmers face restrictions on irrigation in some areas. The need for urgent action is underscored by warnings that without intervention, Britain could soon face drinking water shortages, prompting plans for new reservoir construction and infrastructure investments.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/jul/12/england-reservoirs-lowest-level-for-decade-hosepipe-bans