South East Water, an English water distribution company, announced today (Friday) a temporary ban on the use of water hoses and sprinklers in Kent and Sussex, in the southeast of the country, in the wake of a drought that led to shortages of supplies.
The company said it took the step after soaring temperatures in the past few weeks and high demand for drinking water in Sussex and Kent, which border London.
Last year, England faced the threat of drought for the first time since 2018, as temperatures exceeded 40 degrees Celsius for the first time, which led to restrictions on water consumption, including a ban on water hoses aimed at restricting unnecessary use of water.
"The situation has evolved faster than last year," David Hinton, CEO of the company, said in a statement.
The restrictions will come into effect from June 26, when families will be prohibited from using water hoses to irrigate home gardens, wash cars and boats, or fill swimming pools.