Sussex Placed Into Prolonged Dry Weather As Hosepipe Restrictions Loom

The Environment Agency has declared Sussex to be in a state of prolonged dry weather as hot temperatures, low rainfall and high water demand continue across the South East.

The announcement comes 11 days after Hampshire and the Isle of Wight entered the same status, with South East Water also confirming temporary hosepipe restrictions will begin across Sussex, Hampshire, Surrey and Berkshire on Saturday (25 July).

Officials say river levels, including the Cuckmere, have fallen, affecting water supplies to Arlington Reservoir.

The Environment Agency is urging people to use water carefully, warning that reducing demand will help protect both public supplies and the natural environment.