Approximately 2.4 billion litres have been consumed in recent days
A view of parched land at Wollaton Hall and Deer Park in Nottingham following the county’s designation as being in drought conditions
Residents are being asked to cut back on water consumption after Severn Trent faced unprecedented single-day demand.
The appeal comes as the nation endures its third heatwave of 2026, with temperatures set to stay elevated into next week across the East Midlands region.
Severn Trent confirmed its record-breaking day occurred on Saturday July 11, surpassing the previous benchmark set during the drought of 2022 and the coronavirus pandemic.
Close to 2.4 billion litres have been consumed over recent days, representing an additional 400 million litres above typical daily usage and equivalent to 700 million pints.
Anglian Water, which supplies Lincolnshire, Rutland and parts of north Nottinghamshire, alongside Cambridge Water have imposed restrictions for the first time in decades amid the intense heat affecting the nation.
Severn Trent, which serves most of Nottinghamshire along with Derbyshire and Leicestershire, however ruled out a hosepipe ban earlier this week.
A Severn Trent representative stated that the company witnessed its highest ever single-day water demand on Saturday July 11. The combination of extreme heat and sustained dry conditions during this third heatwave has led to people using significantly more water and for extended periods throughout the day. The teams are labouring around the clock, processing additional water, redistributing supplies throughout the region and addressing leaks at unprecedented rates. Nevertheless, customer cooperation is also required. No restrictions are currently in place and the company wishes to maintain this situation. With no rainfall expected, the company would appreciate support from everyone. Minor adjustments made by many individuals can have a considerable effect. By using water sensibly now, customers can help ensure taps continue to function and prevent the necessity for further measures should the hot weather persist. With a few small changes, collectively they can help keep water flowing this summer.
Customers are being urged to make straightforward adjustments, such as using a watering can rather than a sprinkler, allowing grass to recover on its own, repurposing water from paddling pools for garden use, and operating washing machines and dishwashers only when fully loaded.