Thames Water has issued a statement informing its 15 million customers to prepare for water restrictions.

Photo: Primrose Hill, London

Thanking customers for using water wisely over the last few months, the statement says:

“Given this week’s very hot temperatures and a long-term forecast of more dry weather, we're preparing to bring in a hosepipe ban — officially called a temporary use ban — in the coming weeks.

“Once we've got everything set up, we'll let you know exactly when the restrictions will start and what they’ll mean for you. We’ll also confirm any exemptions and answer common questions.”

The water company also explains that it currently has 160 repair teams working to fix 1,100 leaks per week, while another 280 engineers are working round the clock to detect the 95% of leaks that cannot be seen above ground.

Thames Water says it also accelerating investment in replacing the weakest pipes in its network.