Despite Recent Rainfall, Temporary Use Ban Continues Across the Region
4 September 2026
Anglian Water introduced its first hosepipe ban in more than a decade on 3 August 2026 reflecting the severity of the prolonged dry weather affecting the East of England and the growing pressure on regional water resources.
Although recent rainfall has provided some relief, drought conditions continue across the region, and significantly more sustained wet weather is needed before restrictions can be reviewed. There is no fixed amount of rainfall that triggers the removal of the ban. Decisions are based on a range of factors, including reservoir levels, river flows, groundwater levels, soil moisture and environmental recovery.
Drought recovery happens in stages. Rainfall first needs to restore moisture levels in the soil before water can more easily reach rivers and groundwater sources. As these recover, reservoir levels can begin to replenish, helping return water resources to more normal conditions over the autumn and winter months.
Residents and businesses are being urged to continue using water carefully and avoid unnecessary water use wherever possible.
More information on the temporary use ban is available on Essex and Suffolk Water website.
