The Met Office has reported that 2026 is the first year to experience temperatures of 35C or higher on six separate occasions. This announcement coincides with the UK anticipating its third heatwave within three months, with temperatures reaching 35.2C in Coton in the Elms, Derbyshire today. Previously, the record was shared by 1976 and 2020, each with five days of temperatures exceeding 35C.

This year has also marked a milestone with temperatures hitting 35C or above in three different months, setting a new record for the most occurrences of temperatures at 34C or higher, happening nine times already this summer. Affinity Water has joined other water suppliers in implementing a hosepipe ban due to the strain on water resources caused by the hot and dry weather, coupled with increased water demand. The ban, effective from July 17, will impact approximately 1.1 million households across several regions in South East England.

Under the restrictions, the use of hosepipes for activities such as watering gardens, washing cars, cleaning patios, paths, driveways, windows, and filling swimming or paddling pools is prohibited. Stephen Plumb from Affinity Water emphasized the necessity of this decision to safeguard water supplies for customers, especially the vulnerable, communities, and the environment, given the exceptional water usage levels. Despite acknowledging the inconvenience, they appreciate customers’ cooperation in conserving water during this period.

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