Thames Water asks people across London and the South East to stop using hosepipes, saying hotter weather is increasing water demand and creating supply pressure. The company reports that demand rises by up to 50% in some areas following record-breaking temperatures in May. In response, Thames Water also deploys additional water across the region. One report says an extra billion litres of water are made available over the bank holiday weekend compared with the same weekend in 2025. The company’s request is aimed at reducing usage during the heatwave period, when demand can climb quickly. The disclosures point to a combination of higher customer consumption and the need for operational adjustments to maintain supplies. All outlets describe Thames Water’s warning during the ongoing hot weather and its call for residents to avoid hosepipe use as part of efforts to prevent or manage shortages.