Essex & Suffolk Water has not introduced restrictions said it was “reviewing the situation” following the Environment Agency’s announcement.
The firm continues to urge households to use water wisely and cut non‑essential consumption such as garden sprinklers and car washing.
The decision comes against a backdrop of record low rainfall, soaring temperatures, and a sharp rise in wildfire incidents across eastern England.
A water company spokesman said: “We’re keen do everything we can to support our customers and help protect the environment after the extremely hot and dry conditions we’ve seen in the area over the last few months.”
The areas Essex and Suffolk Water supply in Suffolk. (Image: Essex and Suffolk Water)
Suffolk is now officially in drought, with seven areas in central, eastern, and southern England designated as drought zones by the Environment Agency after months of hot, dry weather.
Phil Garrigan, chairman of the National Fire Chiefs Council, has warned that more than 200 wildfires in just 12 days show how quickly risk can escalate.
The Met Office has forecast temperatures up to 35C, and has assessed that fires could become “exceptionally severe” if they start in parts of London, the South East, and eastern England.
Fire and rescue services in England and Wales have already responded to hundreds of wildfires this year, many in parched fields and grassland.
Essex & Suffolk Water says reservoir levels and demand are being closely monitored and has not ruled out future temporary use bans if the hot, dry weather and high usage continue.
For now, customers are being asked to help “protect supplies for everyone” by using water sparingly at home and in the garden, and to follow advice in the company’s latest drought and dry‑weather updates.