Water resources

Latest water resource situation

Suffolk has experienced an exceptionally dry few months, with three heatwaves, temperatures reaching 31°C, and very little rainfall since the start of July. As a result, demand for water has increased significantly, with an extra seven million litres needed every day across Suffolk - enough to supply a town the size of Lowestoft.

Essex has recorded no rainfall during July, reducing river flows and affecting reservoir levels. Demand for water in Essex is 13% above average, an extra 56 million litres a day, which is like adding an additional Basildon and Southend-on-Sea on to our existing supply area.  

While we're not introducing a temporary usage ban (hosepipe ban) at this time, we are keeping a close eye on water resources and asking our customers to help by using water wisely wherever possible.

We're doing everything we can to reduce waste, including tackling leaks and bursts, but we need everyone's support. By making a few simple changes now, we can help protect local water supplies and reduce the likelihood of restrictions being needed later in the summer.

Get the latest dry weather update and top tips for saving water.

Current reservoir stocks - 28 July 2026

The table below presents our current reservoir stocks and if they are above, below or at average levels for the time of year. These are updated each month.  

We collect and store water in our reservoirs to meet demand throughout the year. Reservoir storage is drawn down in the summer when demand is higher and rainfall lower, and then they refill over the winter, when demand is lower and rainfall is higher.

If you would like detailed information on recent rainfall, current river flows, and river and groundwater levels, these can be found on the Environment Agency website here: EA website (opens new window), or to see the Regional Hydrological outlook, including rainfall, river flows and groundwater levels please refer to hydoutuk.net/latest-outlook (opens new window).

Likelihood of restrictions of water use

During a significant drought, we may need to implement a Temporary Use Ban (or TUB), more commonly known as a 'Hosepipe Ban'. To see the likelihood of formal restrictions on water use being needed, or if there are currently any formal restrictions on the use of water in place, please refer to wheatleywatersource.co.uk (opens new window).