Hosepipe Bans Continue Across Southern England

Hosepipe bans remain in place across much of southern England, including areas served by Thames Water, Southern Water, Yorkshire Water, and South East Water. As of late October 2025, these restrictions have not yet been officially lifted.

Southern Water has said it expects to lift its ban "in the near future", but the company is continuing to monitor local river and reservoir levels before making any firm decision. Experts have warned that river levels are likely to remain low for at least the next three months, and restrictions will only be removed once water supplies are deemed fully recovered.

Water suppliers, including Thames Water and Southern Water, have not provided a definitive end date for the bans. They stress that both "prolonged and significant rainfall" and ongoing water-saving efforts are needed before normal use can resume. While recent rainfall has offered some relief, it has not yet been enough to restore reservoir and groundwater levels to normal.

The bans currently cover activities such as garden watering, car washing, and filling paddling pools, though exceptions remain for commercial operations such as garden centres and car washes. Customers are advised to await official updates, as water companies will announce the lifting of restrictions directly when conditions improve.