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The Environment Agency's report for 23 to 29 October 2026, updated on 30 October, records some recovery after rain. Severe drought continues in affected areas.

England's reservoir storage reached 57.9% on 27 October, but ten monitored reservoirs or groups remained exceptionally low. Most groundwater monitoring sites recorded falling levels.

Severe drought remained in parts of Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, East Sussex and West Sussex. These regional assessments do not describe every household's supply.

Why a wet week does not settle it

South West Water's explanation of the drought describes the gap between rain falling and supplies recovering. Dry ground absorbs water first, while rivers and reservoirs need sustained replenishment. The company says its region relies heavily on surface water because local geology limits groundwater storage.

That makes the view from the kitchen window a poor test of whether restrictions should end. A soaking garden tells you about that garden. It does not tell you how much usable water is in the reservoirs supplying the area.

Check the supplier and the activity

Thames Water's restriction page, checked for this report, says its temporary use ban remains in place. It covers customers supplied with water by the company, with exemptions including wastewater-only customers and specified medical, disability and other circumstances.

Its published rules restrict non-essential hosepipe, sprinkler and pressure-washer use, including watering gardens and cleaning patios. Watering cans and stored rainwater are among the permitted alternatives. Read the detailed rules and exemptions before starting a job; another company's notice may have different terms.

For households elsewhere, use the name of the drinking-water supplier on the bill and open that company's restriction notice. Check the affected area, date and any exemption relevant to you. Save the notice if you are planning work and check again before using the hose.

The limits of this update

The Environment Agency report covers England. It does not establish restriction status in Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, and a national reservoir figure cannot predict whether an individual property will lose supply.

For ordinary interruption planning, see how to store drinking water at home. Follow your supplier's live notices if there is a local fault.

Sources