Thames Water has imposed a hosepipe ban affecting 10.1 million customers due to an 'exceptionally warm and dry spring' that has led to 40% of average rainfall in the region.The restrictions, effective from Thursday, prohibit the use of hosepipes for watering gardens, cleaning vehicles, filling pools, or window cleaning.Water usage is currently 10% above normal in the Thames Valley and Home Counties, with an extra 100 million litres consumed daily.Director Nevil Muncaster emphasized that the ban aims to protect water supplies for essential needs while reducing non-essential outdoor demand.Exemptions include health and safety requirements, animal welfare, and mobility issues.The company also highlighted its £20bn debt crisis, with lenders preparing legal action against potential government intervention.

Customers are urged to use buckets or watering cans instead of hosepipes, with specific guidelines for gardening, car washing, and exemptions outlined in the statement.