Ireland expands nationwide hosepipe ban amid long-range water supply concerns

Ireland has expanded a nationwide hosepipe ban due to long-range forecasts indicating sustained pressure on water resources. Concurrently, Thames Water has implemented a mandatory hosepipe ban affecting over 10 million customers in London and the Thames Valley, citing critical water stress levels across England and Wales caused by prolonged dry weather and recent heatwaves. The full extent of the drought's long-term impact on water supply and the potential for government intervention in utilities remain uncertain.