Drought

Save water all year round

Recent rainfall has helped replenish some of our depleted rivers and reservoirs, allowing some water companies to safely lift the hosepipe restrictions introduced earlier in 2025. This wouldn’t have been possible without the water-saving efforts shown by customers over the summer.

However, we need to sustain this momentum and mustn’t become complacent. Drought doesn’t end quickly, and full recovery takes time. We still need continued wet weather over winter, alongside the same commitment to saving water that was seen during the summer months. Use our tool to find out if there is enough water where you live.

Water companies must work hard to build resilience over the winter by repairing leaks in their networks, as well as investing in new technologies to improve their water efficiency and encouraging customers to trial a water meter to trial a water meter

What is a water shortage?

This often happens when there has been a lack of rainfall over time. It can have a huge impact on the rivers and streams where a lot of our tap water comes from. Water companies therefore need to balance the needs of their customers and the environment.

We depend on rainfall over the autumn and winter to top up our reservoir levels and underground sources of water. If that doesn’t happen, water companies may have to introduce restrictions for people to make sure there is enough water to go round.

How can you help?

Saving water doesn’t have to be a chore. It should be a conscious choice we make every day, rather than just for a few months.

By making small changes to our daily routines, we can make a significant difference in our homes, create greener communities, and protect the environment.

Everything counts, from turning off the tap when brushing your teeth to using rainwater for plants, taking shorter showers, or refraining from using water sprinklers. These actions help save water, save money, and prevent a water shortage.

Water facts:

• On average, a shower uses a massive 10 litres of water every minute!
• Collect rainwater with a water butt:  It’s actually better for your plants as it has a lower pH.
• Just by turning off the tap when you brush your teeth, you save up to 48 cups of clean, drinkable water every time!