Two regions in the southeast of England will face a watering ban due to water shortages that threaten a drier than usual summer, according to the water supply company. Starting June 26 and until further notice, watering gardens, washing cars, and filling swimming pools will be banned in the counties of Kent and Sussex. Those who break the ban could face fines of up to £1,000 ($1,280).
Last year, water restrictions were imposed across the UK due to a prolonged drought. In recent days, England has experienced unusually high temperatures, surpassing 32°C in south London last Saturday. Despite being a country with regular rainfall, precipitation has been scarce in recent weeks.
This situation has led to an increase in demand for water, and some localities have been left without supplies, forcing some schools to close classes. David Hinton, executive director of South East Water, acknowledged that they have experienced an increase in demand due to the high temperatures, which has affected their ability to guarantee supply to all. They have therefore taken the decision to implement this temporary ban, noting that this situation has developed more quickly than last year.
In Scotland, despite being a region known for its cold and rainy climate, the environmental protection agency warned of the threat of a serious water shortage at the end of June, despite the rain expected in the coming days. Rivers and lakes are under enormous pressure, and additional measures will be required to protect them, according to Nathan Critchlow-Watton, head of the agency.