Severn Trent's urgent water warning to cut use to avoid ban

Severn Trent reported its highest-ever single day of water use across its region on July 11, driven by prolonged hot and dry weather.

The company said demand was almost 2,400 million litres, around 400 million litres above normal daily use.

That extra volume is enough to supply water to two million people, or the equivalent of 700 million pints.

A spokesman for Severn Trent said: "We've seen the highest demand ever for water in a single day on Saturday, July 11.

"The combination of extreme heat and prolonged dry weather in this third heatwave means people are using much more water and for much longer throughout the day.

"Our teams are working around the clock, treating more water, moving supplies across the region and fixing leaks at record levels.

"But we need customers' help too.

"There are no restrictions in place, and we want to keep it that way and with no rain in the forecast, we'd love everyone's support to help.

"Small changes made by lots of people can have a huge impact.

"By using water wisely now, customers can help us keep taps flowing and avoid the need for further measures if the hot weather continues.

"With a few small changes, together we can help keep water flowing this summer."

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Severn Trent said it is responding to "unprecedented" levels of demand, with staff working continuously to increase production, redistribute supplies across the network, and repair leaks as quickly as possible.

The company has not imposed water restrictions in 30 years, crediting long-term investment in the region's infrastructure.

Residents are being urged to take simple water-saving steps, such as using a watering can instead of a sprinkler, letting lawns recover naturally, reusing water from paddling pools on to plants, and running washing machines and dishwashers with full loads.

These actions, the company said, could collectively save millions of litres of water and help protect supplies for both communities and the environment.

Demand is currently remaining high well into the night, extending beyond the typical peak hours of 9pm to 1am.

Severn Trent warned that continued high use could make it "increasingly challenging" to keep up with customer needs if hot, dry conditions persist.