Hosepipe ban 'inevitable' as Britain faces 'worrying' dry spell, warns top meteorologist

Meteorologist delivers stark warning as rivers at 'exceptionally low' levels
GB NEWS
Gabrielle Wilde

By Gabrielle Wilde


Published: 12/05/2025

- 15:51

The UK is experiencing what could become the hottest spring on record

Meteorologist John Kettley has warned that a hosepipe ban is "inevitable" as Britain faces increasingly dry conditions amid a spring heatwave.

The warning comes as the UK experiences what could become the hottest spring on record, with temperatures soaring to 27C in some areas.


Experts are predicting that the current dry spell could lead to water restrictions if significant rainfall doesn't materialise soon.

The current heatwave gripping Britain is seeing temperatures soar higher than parts of the Mediterranean, with a 700 mile-wide "heat bubble" bringing daily highs of around 25C.

Meteorologist John Kettley

Meteorologist John Kettley warned that the ban is likely to come into forced if weather conditions remain

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Kettley told GB News: "At the moment it does feel very dry. We haven't had very much rain so far this year.

"Very small amounts of rain in the past three months. And that is quite worrying. It's just quite a concern because everything is drying out.

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"What we've also had recently as well, for quite a time we've had an easterly wind blowing in and it's been drying everything out as well.

"So a lot of evapotranspiration as they call it.

"So not only is there a lack of rainfall across many parts of the country, it's also evaporating anything that's lying in the ground as well."

Speaking about whether there could be a hosepipe ban he added: "I think it is inevitable that we'll hear those words being uttered if things go on as they are."

The Met Office has predicted "fine and settled weather" with temperatures "in the mid-20s and up to 9C above average" throughout the week.

Forecasters suggest the warm weather could continue for up to two weeks for many parts of the UK, with consistently warm, dry and bright skies.

The prolonged hot spell has put this spring in position to potentially become the hottest on record, with bookmakers slashing odds to 1-2.

Coral spokesman John Hill said: "The odds say spring temperature records will melt."

Data

Data has revealed that rivers are at exceptionally low levels

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Some forecasters suggest even hotter conditions could arrive later this month, with The Weather Outlook's Brian Gaze noting: "The 29.3C high this year could be quickly surpassed in any heat from southern Europe this month."

Health experts across the country advise people to take precautions during the hot weather.

Medical professionals note that hot and dry conditions can worsen underlying health conditions, with older adults, children and those with chronic illnesses particularly vulnerable.

Authorities recommend staying indoors during the hottest parts of the day, keeping hydrated, and using shades or curtains to block direct sunlight.