Yorkshire Water issues warning as demand surges during 30°C heatwave
Yorkshire Water is urging customers in Leeds to save water where possible as demand rises sharply with soaring temperatures
Yorkshire Water is urging customers to use water wisely as temperatures in Leeds and the wider Yorkshire region soar above 30°C this week, driving a significant increase in demand for drinking water.
As warmer weather arrives and people enjoy sunnier days, the demand for water tends to rise.
Demand on Tuesday (June 23) hit 1.485 billion litres, according to the water supplier - 150 million litres higher than the average for this time of year and enough to supply a city the size of Leeds for a day.
It is estimated that demand will peak later in the week, with Yorkshire Water expecting to distribute 1.49 billion litres on the hottest day of the heatwave.
In 2025, a Yorkshire-wide hosepipe ban was imposed in early July after the region experienced its driest spring on record and reservoir levels fell to historic lows.
Temperatures in Leeds are forecast to reach around 33°C today (June 24) and is expected to peak at up to 34°C on Friday (June 26).
Andy Shaw, Head of Water Production at Yorkshire Water, emphasised that even minor adjustments in daily habits can collectively conserve significant amounts of water: “With temperatures climbing, people will understandably be making the most of the sunshine, and with an increase in temperature, we see increased water demand.
“Small changes by everyone can make a big difference and help save thousands of litres of water.
“Simple actions such as using a watering can instead of a hosepipe, watering plants in the morning or evening rather than in the heat of the day, waiting until washing machines and dishwashers are full before putting them on, and turning off the tap while brushing teeth can all play a vital role in helping to protect resources.”
People can save water during the heatwave by:
- Using a watering can instead of a hosepipe where possible.
- Only running washing machines and dishwashers with full loads.
- Turning the tap off when brushing your teeth.
- Fixing dripping taps and leaks.
- Reusing water from paddling pools to water plants.