Water shortages unlikely despite hot weather

17 April 2007

With temperatures reaching 25C over the weekend, many will be wondering whether the water shortages which dominated the headlines last summer are set for a return, but according to the Met Office, a water shortage for this summer is "unlikely".

According to meteorological experts, summer 2007 will be one of the hottest on record, but thanks to an unusually wet winter, underground water sources and reservoirs have recovered well.

This is good news for consumers as it means the chances of a hose pipe ban are slim and the cost of water services should remain in line with previous estimates throughout the next twelve months.

"Nearly all company reservoirs are now at average or above average levels for this time of year," UK Water, the group representing British water companies, told edie.net.

Dr Tish Laing-Morton, Clinical Director at the Met Office, warned that despite the good news on the water front, consumers should be on the look out for potential health problems caused by the excess heat.

"The very old and the very young are particularly susceptible to extreme heat, particularly when very warm nights prevent the body from recuperating from very hot days. Also, people who suffer with breathing difficulties are likely to find their symptoms heightened," she said.

If you don't have a water meter installed, you could be paying over the odds for your bills. uSwitch.com can help you work out your usage and see if installing a water meter could help you save money. Read our water saving tips too.

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