Hosepipe ban lifted for millions but parts of UK still in drought

Low water levels at Baitings Reservoir on October 16, 2025 in Ripponden

Yorkshire Water is lifting a hosepipe ban imposed on millions of households in the summer, following the recovery of reservoirs and water resources in the region. The company was the first major utility to impose restrictions on its customers in July, after much of England struggled with drought in the wake of the driest spring for more than a century and a record hot summer.

Reservoir levels are now at 91.6%, up from just 30.6% at their lowest point, and Hull aquifer levels are at 77% – up from 49% at the end of November following recent rainfall. It means water resources across reservoirs, rivers and groundwater sources are now above average for the time of year, at 85.1%, and restrictions can be lifted for 2.3 mil