We wanted to update you on the water supply situation across areas of Kent and Sussex for South East Water customers.

With the introduction of restrictions on the use of hosepipes and sprinklers to our customers in Kent and Sussex yesterday (Friday 16^th June) demand has reduced overall by three per cent, with the biggest reduction in our western region. There was a slight increase in demand in the Kent area, whilst Sussex saw a slight decrease.

We had forecasted a two per cent increase, which means we believe customers have reacted positively to the announcement on restrictions, and we want to thank them for their continued support and understanding in this difficult period.

The weather is looking to change in the next 24 hours where we expect demand will drop a little, but it still remains high. However, there is concern over the yellow weather warning for storms on Sunday, which could cause power outages and impact our water treatment works.

Overnight, most customers should have seen tap water supplies return. We are aware that some customers on higher ground may still have no water or low pressure. This can happen as the pumps that push water uphill cannot operate as effectively when supplies are low.

Overall our drinking water storage levels are stable and we are continuing to make adjustments to the network to try to increase it where we can.

We will still have four bottled water stations open in the areas affected, as a precaution, but we expect these to be quieter than previously. A list of the stations and opening times is below.