The recent spell of hot weather led to a sharp increase in water use across Essex & Suffolk Water's supply area, as customers look to stay cool and hydrated in rising temperatures.
Warmer weather naturally brings higher demand, but teams across the region have been working around the clock to ensure water continues to be available when customers need it most.
Essex & Suffolk Water say the highest demand was recorded on Tuesday 26 May, when customers used 587 million litres of water as temperatures reached 34°C. Just a week earlier, on Tuesday 19 May, demand stood at 453 million litres, when temperatures peaked at 19°C.
Behind the scenes, operational teams are constantly monitoring the extensive network of pipes and infrastructure to spot any changes in pressure or supply. This allows them to move water around the network to maintain a consistent supply for customers.
Hot, dry conditions can also put additional strain on infrastructure. As the ground dries out, it can shift, sometimes causing pipes to crack and leak. When repair teams are seen working on roads, it is often to fix these leaks and prevent the loss of treated drinking water.
So far in 2026, up to the end of April, teams have repaired 2,517 leaks across the Essex and Suffolk network, helping to reduce waste and protect supplies.
Kieran Ingram, Water Director, said: “When the weather gets warmer, we expect to see an increase in demand, but our teams are working hard to keep water flowing for our customers.
“These figures show how quickly demand can rise, increasing by 134 million litres across our supply area in Essex and Suffolk in just a week — driven by the hotter weather and the bank holiday.
“While demand increases, it’s important we continue to protect water in the natural environment. Our teams are monitoring the network 24/7 and fixing leaks as quickly as possible to minimise waste.
“We’re also encouraging customers to play their part by using water wisely — even small changes can make a big difference.”
Customers can find simple tips on saving water by visiting the company’s website: Save Water | How to Help With Water Conservation