(Image: Yorkshire Water)
Yorkshire Water is urging customers to use water wisely as another spell of hot weather pushes demand to record levels, with temperatures across the region forecast to top 30C during the UK's fifth heatwave of the year.
During previous heatwaves, daily water usage reached 1.55 billion litres—more than 220 million litres above average demand and equivalent to the combined daily supply of Leeds, Harrogate and Halifax.
Debbie Feldhaus, head of strategic water resources and regional planning at Yorkshire Water, said: "This is the fifth heatwave of the summer, and we know that when temperatures rise, so does demand for water.
"With temperatures set to rise above 30 degrees in the region, we’re preparing for a significant increase in water usage, which will put pressure on our network.
"Our teams are working hard to manage supplies and ensure we can continue providing a reliable supply to our customers.
"But we are also asking everyone to play their part, use water wisely, and save it where possible."
This summer has already recorded 39 days where water usage exceeded 1.4 billion litres a day—the highest on record.
Yorkshire is not currently in drought, but the region is now classified as being in "prolonged dry weather" status, the stage before a formal drought.
Reservoir stocks currently stand at 58 per cent, higher than the 42.1 per cent recorded at this time last year but below the seasonal average of 73.9 per cent.
Ms Feldhaus said: "Small changes can make a big difference.
"Whether it’s using a watering can instead of a hosepipe, taking shorter showers or only putting the washing machine and dishwasher on when they’re full, every drop saved helps us protect our water resources now and for the future.
"Our region is now in prolonged dry weather status, reflecting the hot, dry spring and summer we’ve had in the region.
"Our reservoir stocks are higher than they were at this time last year, but with water demand at all-time highs and no sign of significant rain in the forecast, it is important we all try to make small changes to our water use habits."
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Yorkshire Water is encouraging customers to adopt water-saving habits during the heatwave, including using a watering can instead of a hosepipe, only running full loads in washing machines and dishwashers, turning off the tap while brushing teeth, and keeping a jug of water in the fridge instead of running the tap until it gets cold.
They also recommend reusing water from paddling pools or washing up to water plants, and taking shorter showers where possible.
For more advice on saving water, visit the Yorkshire Water website.