Thousands of households in Kent are left without tap water following exceptionally hot weather and a surge in demand over the bank holiday and into the following week. South East Water reports that about 8,000 homes in Whitstable have no water, with residents in some cases queuing for bottled water at water stations. Other coverage also says a further group of customers is at risk of shortages. The shortages are linked to reservoir levels running low, with reporting describing supplies reaching “critical” levels as temperatures rise. One outlet notes temperatures reaching the mid-30s Celsius, including peaks around 35C, which drives higher household use and intensifies pressure on local supplies. Some residents, including vulnerable people and families, are described as facing difficulties obtaining water, particularly during the hottest days. In addition to home impacts, some outlets cite disruption to local businesses during the period when water supplies are unavailable or reduced. Overall, the situation is ongoing in parts of Kent as demand remains high and reservoir supplies are replenished.