Wessex Water has introduced its first hosepipe ban in 50 years, placing temporary restrictions on millions of residents following a formal drought declaration.

A regional hosepipe ban for Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire, and Berkshire begins Saturday as South East Water addresses low water levels and financial uncertainty.

The UK is experiencing record-breaking temperatures, leading to active heat health alerts and the implementation of hosepipe bans across several regions. Authorities have also issued urgent warnings regarding the extreme risk of wildfires caused by dry conditions.