{"id":743149,"date":"2026-08-19T17:10:40","date_gmt":"2026-08-19T17:10:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/743149\/"},"modified":"2026-08-19T17:10:40","modified_gmt":"2026-08-19T17:10:40","slug":"why-heavy-rain-wont-end-hosepipe-bans","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/743149\/","title":{"rendered":"Why heavy rain won&#8217;t end hosepipe bans"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>It\u2019s <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/uk-rain-where-and-when-4711627?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">finally raining<\/a> in the south of the UK, bringing to an end the over <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/topic\/drought?ico=in-line_link\" id=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/topic\/drought\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">60 day dry spell<\/a> in some parts of the country.<\/p>\n<p>The <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/how-super-el-nino-impact-uk-weather-year-4703969?srsltid=AfmBOop75483elaG8fuWKhTHlNWRsLkWBka-8xy7A6bttzxoDs0ZO5q9&amp;ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">changing weather pattern<\/a> will be welcomed by many, <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/opinion\/price-cucumber-tells-about-future-of-food-shop-4701575?srsltid=AfmBOoofQdddoiReJtsTVQ86KaMJ0ccnAi9D1ovAhTAobKQxzfk5G20V&amp;ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">including farmers whose crops are dying<\/a> and gardeners who have been restricted by <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/opinion\/hosepipe-ban-hypocrisy-furious-4708539?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">hosepipe bans<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>But the <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/topic\/rain?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">wet weather<\/a> is nowhere near enough to end the <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/how-water-companies-charge-more-during-drought-4710607?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">drought<\/a> that is gripping large swathes of the country and more restrictions could even be possible due to the prolonged period of dry weather.<\/p>\n<p>\n\t\t\tShorts\n\t\t<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\tScroll to previous short<br \/>\n\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/inews-theme\/assets\/images\/chevron.svg\" alt=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<p>\t\t\tScroll to next short<br \/>\n\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/inews-theme\/assets\/images\/chevron.svg\" alt=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/inews-theme\/assets\/images\/chevron.svg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--badge\">news<\/p>\n<p>What has happened so far in Meta\u2019s trial over \u2018harm to children\u2019<\/p>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308806244.jpg\" alt=\"Toronto, Canada - December 5, 2024: Meta Platforms apps on a smartphone - Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, WhatsApp, Meta View, Meta Horizon, Threads, Workplace, Business Suite.\" class=\"wp-image-4716721\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Caption: Toronto, Canada \u2013 December 5, 2024: Meta Platforms apps on a smartphone \u2013 Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, WhatsApp, Meta View, Meta Horizon, Threads, Workplace, Business Suite.<br \/>Photographer: Kenneth Cheung<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: iStock Unreleased<br \/>Copyright: ? Kenneth Cheung (kennethcheungphoto@gmail.com)<\/p>\n<p>The first hearing day of the lawsuit against Meta over alleged child harm ended yesterday.<\/p>\n<p>A coalition of 29 US states initially brought the action against Meta Platforms in 2023 in California, accusing the company of deliberately designing its platforms to be addictive to young people.<\/p>\n<p>\nThe opening arguments\n<\/p>\n<p>California\u2019s deputy attorney general Megan O\u2019Neill alleged that Meta hid the truth about the risks its platforms posed to children, chose profit over safety and actively intervened in its own mental health research.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"512\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308806246.jpg\" alt=\"Attorney Paul Schmidt, representing Meta Platforms Inc., arrives at the Ronald V. Dellums Federal Building &amp; US Courthouse in Oakland, California, US, on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026. Meta Platforms Inc. is headed to court Tuesday for a high-stakes showdown with a coalition of state attorneys general over claims that the company deliberately designed Facebook and Instagram to encourage compulsive use among young users. Photographer: David Paul Morris\/Bloomberg via Getty Images\" class=\"wp-image-4716722\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"  \/>Caption: Attorney Paul Schmidt, representing Meta Platforms Inc., arrives at the Ronald V. Dellums Federal Building &amp; US Courthouse in Oakland, California, US, on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026. Meta Platforms Inc. is headed to court Tuesday for a high-stakes showdown with a coalition of state attorneys general over claims that the company deliberately designed Facebook and Instagram to encourage compulsive use among young users. Photographer: David Paul Morris\/Bloomberg via Getty Images<br \/>Photographer: Bloomberg<br \/>Provider: Bloomberg via Getty Images<br \/>Source: Bloomberg<br \/>Copyright: ? 2026 Bloomberg Finance LP<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"711\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308806598.jpg\" alt=\"Colorado Chief Trial Counsel Jason Slothouber (C) and California Deputy Attorney General Megan O'Neill (C-L) exit Ronald V. Dellums Federal Building &amp; United States Courthouse in Oakland, California, on August 12, 2026 during jury selection as Meta faces trial about alleged harms to children. The federal trial, one of the most consequential among a myriad of legal proceedings targeting social networks in the United States, will begin Wednesday with jury selection at a federal court in Oakland, near San Francisco. (Photo by Godofredo A. V??SQUEZ \/ AFP via Getty Images)\" class=\"wp-image-4716751\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover;width:195px\"  \/>Caption: Colorado Chief Trial Counsel Jason Slothouber (C) and California Deputy Attorney General Megan O\u2019Neill (C-L) exit Ronald V. Dellums Federal Building &amp; United States Courthouse in Oakland, California, on August 12, 2026 during jury selection as Meta faces trial about alleged harms to children. The federal trial, one of the most consequential among a myriad of legal proceedings targeting social networks in the United States, will begin Wednesday with jury selection at a federal court in Oakland, near San Francisco. (Photo by Godofredo A. V??SQUEZ \/ AFP via Getty Images)<br \/>Photographer: GODOFREDO A. VASQUEZ<br \/>Provider: AFP via Getty Images<br \/>Source: AFP<br \/>Copyright: AFP or licensors<\/p>\n<p>Meta\u2019s lawyer Paul Schmidt argued the company always took safety into account, has a track record of sharing information about social media harms and that enforcing content and age limit policies is complicated.<\/p>\n<p>A whistleblower\u2019s testimony<\/p>\n<p>Meta whistleblower Arturo B\u00e9jar said in his testimony that Meta knew its platforms were harming young people, and underplayed the amount of harm among users in its public reports.<\/p>\n<p>During the trial, protestors gathered outside the courthouse.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308806177.jpg\" alt=\"Mothers of children who allegedly died due to impacts of social media during a protest outside the Ronald V. Dellums Federal Building &amp; US Courthouse in Oakland, California, US, on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026. Meta Platforms Inc. is headed to court Tuesday for a high-stakes showdown with a coalition of state attorneys general over claims that the company deliberately designed Facebook and Instagram to encourage compulsive use among young users. Photographer: David Paul Morris\/Bloomberg via Getty Images\" class=\"wp-image-4716720\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Caption: Mothers of children who allegedly died due to impacts of social media during a protest outside the Ronald V. Dellums Federal Building &amp; US Courthouse in Oakland, California, US, on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026. Meta Platforms Inc. is headed to court Tuesday for a high-stakes showdown with a coalition of state attorneys general over claims that the company deliberately designed Facebook and Instagram to encourage compulsive use among young users. Photographer: David Paul Morris\/Bloomberg via Getty Images<br \/>Photographer: Bloomberg<br \/>Provider: Bloomberg via Getty Images<br \/>Source: Bloomberg<br \/>Copyright: ? 2026 Bloomberg Finance LP<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308806243.jpg\" alt=\"Demonstrators hold a banner with the names of young people who allegedly died due to impacts of social media during a protest outside the Ronald V. Dellums Federal Building &amp; US Courthouse in Oakland, California, US, on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026. Meta Platforms Inc. is headed to court Tuesday for a high-stakes showdown with a coalition of state attorneys general over claims that the company deliberately designed Facebook and Instagram to encourage compulsive use among young users. Photographer: David Paul Morris\/Bloomberg via Getty Images\" class=\"wp-image-4716719\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Caption: Demonstrators hold a banner with the names of young people who allegedly died due to impacts of social media during a protest outside the Ronald V. Dellums Federal Building &amp; US Courthouse in Oakland, California, US, on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026. Meta Platforms Inc. is headed to court Tuesday for a high-stakes showdown with a coalition of state attorneys general over claims that the company deliberately designed Facebook and Instagram to encourage compulsive use among young users. Photographer: David Paul Morris\/Bloomberg via Getty Images<br \/>Photographer: Bloomberg<br \/>Provider: Bloomberg via Getty Images<br \/>Source: Bloomberg<br \/>Copyright: ? 2026 Bloomberg Finance LP<\/p>\n<p>What happens next?<\/p>\n<p>California\u2019s attorney general, Rob Bonta, said the hearing will resume with the continuation of B\u00e9jar\u2019s testimony. The\u00a0trial is\u00a0expected to last 5-7 weeks.<\/p>\n<p>Whether CEO of Meta Mark Zuckerberg will testify is still \u201cTBD\u201d, according to Bonta.<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/jobs-send-school-leavers-offered-benefits-4714633?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308754747.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">3 min read<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/uk-child-adhd-autism-diagnosis-compare-other-countries-4085998?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_276763949.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_label\">Explained<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">2 min read<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--badge\">news<\/p>\n<p>How Ulez is improving children\u2019s health in London<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308809226.jpg\" alt=\"Young girl receiving respiratory treatment at home\" class=\"wp-image-4716911\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Caption: Young girl receiving respiratory treatment at home<br \/>Photographer: SBenitez<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: Moment RF<\/p>\n<p>A study has revealed that children\u2019s lungs grew bigger and stronger after the introduction of the ultra-low emission zone (Ulez), which restricted the most polluting vehicles from entering London.<\/p>\n<p>The researchers described it as a vindication of the policy, which has been criticised as  a burden on motorists.<\/p>\n<p>What you need to know<\/p>\n<p>Previous research showed that by the age of eight or nine, children living in London\u2019s most polluted areas had lung capacity that was 5\u201310 per cent lower than that of children living elsewhere.<\/p>\n<p>This increased their risk of developing respiratory diseases such as asthma, cardiovascular and metabolic disease, and premature death later in life.<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/doctor-seven-dangerous-myths-midlife-women-ignore-4667209?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_306785125.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">6 min read<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/twenty-minute-walk-after-dinner-transformed-health-3456381?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_303819789.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">4 min read<\/p>\n<p>The study<\/p>\n<p>Researchers from Queen Mary University of London recruited 1,664 children aged six to nine in London and 1,750 in Luton.<\/p>\n<p>They then measured the children\u2019s lung health and size annually to assess how air quality changes after the introduction of Ulez affected their lung development.<\/p>\n<p>The children in London initially had much smaller lungs than those in Luton, but after Ulez, their lungs\u2019 health improved until they were comparable with those in Luton.<\/p>\n<p>What Khan has said<\/p>\n<p>For years, politicians and pundits opposed to the Ulez have cynically sought to turn questions of public health into a crude culture war. Today, though, it\u2019s clear that we\u2019re winning the battle against toxic air in the capital \u2013 and it\u2019s London\u2019s children who are reaping the rewards.<\/p>\n<p>Sadiq khan, mayor of london<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308809140.jpg\" alt=\"LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - MAY 18: London Mayor Sadiq Khan attends press day of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in London, United Kingdom on May 18, 2026. (Photo by Rasid Necati Aslim\/Anadolu via Getty Images)\" class=\"wp-image-4716910\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Caption: LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM \u2013 MAY 18: London Mayor Sadiq Khan attends press day of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in London, United Kingdom on May 18, 2026. (Photo by Rasid Necati Aslim\/Anadolu via Getty Images)<br \/>Photographer: Anadolu<br \/>Provider: Anadolu via Getty Images<br \/>Source: Anadolu<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/1787159422_755_SEI_307454423.jpg\" alt=\"Thymus in the chest\" class=\"wp-image-4690254\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Research suggests the thymus is a major player in healthy ageing (Photo: janulla\/Getty)<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--badge\">read more from the i paper<\/p>\n<p>The organ in your chest that could be key to living longer<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/1787159423_548_DM-Clare-Wilson-8815.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--byline_name\">Clare Wilson<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--byline_job-title\">Science Writer<\/p>\n<p>If you ever muse about which parts of your body are most impacted by getting older, your heart, brain or perhaps your muscles may come to mind. One that you probably wouldn\u2019t think of is the thymus.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308812885.jpg\" alt=\"Erin Patterson leaves Melbourne Supreme Court. April 15th, 2025 (Photo by Jason South \/ The Age via Getty Images)\" class=\"wp-image-4717094\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Caption: Erin Patterson leaves Melbourne Supreme Court. April 15th, 2025 (Photo by Jason South \/ The Age via Getty Images)<br \/>Photographer: Fairfax Media<br \/>Provider: Fairfax Media<br \/>Source: Fairfax Media<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--badge\">news<\/p>\n<p>Erin Patterson challenges convictions over mushroom murders<\/p>\n<p>Erin Patterson was jailed for life last September for murdering three relatives and trying to kill another after giving them a poisonous mushroom meal.<\/p>\n<p>But now, Patterson is returning to court in an attempt to overturn her conviction.<\/p>\n<p>What Patterson\u2019s lawyers argue<\/p>\n<p>Patterson\u2019s lawyers say there are pieces of evidence the jurors saw which were not relevant and prejudicial, causing a substantial miscarriage of justice.<\/p>\n<p>They include mobile tracking data indicating that she had been to places where death cap mushrooms had recently been seen, and online messages to Facebook friends in which she ranted about her in-laws and estranged husband.<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/areas-most-risk-flash-flooding-thunderstorms-sweep-uk-4714708?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/PRI_191229350.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">4 min read<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/politics\/fly-tipping-gangs-hunted-britains-fbi-new-crackdown-4715632?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/GettyImages-2243996884.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_label\">Exclusive<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">3 min read<\/p>\n<p>A closer look at the detail<\/p>\n<p>Patterson\u2019s lawyers also claimed that other evidence had been wrongly excluded.<\/p>\n<p>They pointed to photos relating to her hobby as a long-time mushroom forager that would have supported their argument that the deaths were a tragic accident.<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/world\/mushroom-murderer-jailed-for-life-over-toxic-death-cap-lunch-3904442?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_263362814.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">1 min read<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/world\/erin-patterson-guilty-australian-toxic-mushroom-murders-case-3790946?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_254040696.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">2 min read<\/p>\n<p>Issues with prosecution<\/p>\n<p>Her lawyers argued that the prosecution had been inconsistent over the motive, initially telling the court they would not put forward a specific motive, but later suggesting that one did exist.<\/p>\n<p>They criticised the five days Patterson was cross-examined by barrister Nanette Rogers.<\/p>\n<p>Patterson said it was \u201cunfair and oppressive\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>Because of the global scrutiny on the case, steps were taken to ensure the jury were insulated from outside influences.  <\/p>\n<p>\n\u2018Fundamental irregularity\u2019\n<\/p>\n<p>However, Patterson\u2019s lawyers argued a \u201cfundamental irregularity\u201d occurred which \u201cfatally undermined\u201d the integrity of the verdicts.<\/p>\n<p>This is because the jury shared a hotel with members of the prosecution among others.<\/p>\n<p>The judge at the time said there was no evidence the jury interacted with anyone linked to the case.<\/p>\n<p>\nWhat happens next?\n<\/p>\n<p>The result of the appeal will not be announced immediately after these hearings, as reaching a decision could take months. <\/p>\n<p>If the three judges overturn her convictions, there are two options \u2013 a retrial or acquittal.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"512\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308813080.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4717113\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"  \/>Photographer: Chris Ryan<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: OJO Images RF<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"711\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308812972.jpg\" alt=\"TOPSHOT - Convicted murderer Erin Patterson is escorted out of the Supreme Court of Victoria following the day's proceedings in a pre-sentencing hearing in Melbourne on August 25, 2025. The only guest to survive a toxic mushroom lunch with Australian murderer Erin Patterson said August 25 he feels &quot;half alive&quot; without his wife -- one of the killer's three poisoning victims. Patterson, 50, was convicted in July of triple murder for serving beef Wellington laced with death cap mushrooms -- the world's deadliest fungi -- to her estranged husband's parents, aunt and uncle during a sumptuous lunch at her home in rural Leongatha in the state of Victoria in 2023. (Photo by Martin KEEP \/ AFP) (Photo by MARTIN KEEP\/AFP via Getty Images)\" class=\"wp-image-4717097\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover;width:195px\"  \/>Caption: TOPSHOT \u2013 Convicted murderer Erin Patterson is escorted out of the Supreme Court of Victoria following the day\u2019s proceedings in a pre-sentencing hearing in Melbourne on August 25, 2025. The only guest to survive a toxic mushroom lunch with Australian murderer Erin Patterson said August 25 he feels \u201chalf alive\u201d without his wife \u2014 one of the killer\u2019s three poisoning victims. Patterson, 50, was convicted in July of triple murder for serving beef Wellington laced with death cap mushrooms \u2014 the world\u2019s deadliest fungi \u2014 to her estranged husband\u2019s parents, aunt and uncle during a sumptuous lunch at her home in rural Leongatha in the state of Victoria in 2023. (Photo by Martin KEEP \/ AFP) (Photo by MARTIN KEEP\/AFP via Getty Images)<br \/>Photographer: MARTIN KEEP<br \/>Provider: AFP via Getty Images<br \/>Source: AFP<br \/>Copyright: AFP or licensors<\/p>\n<p>If the prosecution\u2019s appeal is successful, Patterson may see her parole period extended, or could face life without parole.<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--badge\">tennis<\/p>\n<p>Nick Kyrgios banned from tennis after positive cocaine test<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"414\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_234386583-e1787130096488.jpg\" alt=\"Australia's Nick Kyrgios attends a training session before the Brisbane International tennis tournament in Brisbane on December 28, 2024. (Photo by Patrick HAMILTON \/ AFP) \/ -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE -- (Photo by PATRICK HAMILTON\/AFP via Getty Images)\" class=\"wp-image-3464528\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Nick Kyrgios is back in action (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Nick Kyrgios has been provisionally suspended from tennis after testing positive for cocaine. <\/p>\n<p>The Australian submitted a sample during the Mallorca Open on 22 June that was later found to contain benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine.<\/p>\n<p>\nWhat you need to know\n<\/p>\n<p>Kyrgios\u00a0has been provisionally suspended since 4 August.<\/p>\n<p>The International Tennis Integrity Agency said Kyrgios could appeal against the provisional suspension \u201cbut has not done so to date\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>In a post on Instagram, Kyrgios said he made \u201ca huge mistake\u201d and takes \u201cfull responsibility\u201d for it.<\/p>\n<p>What the suspension means<\/p>\n<p>Kyrgios cannot play, coach at or attend Grand Slams or any events sanctioned by the men\u2019s and women\u2019s tennis tours. <\/p>\n<p>The 31-year-old has played just four singles matches this season, having struggled with injuries. He last played in the men\u2019s doubles at Wimbledon, where he lost in the first round.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"538\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_162317930.jpg\" alt=\"Nick Kyrgios at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in Wimbledon, ahead of the championships which start on Monday. Picture date: Friday June 30, 2023. PA Photo. See PA story TENNIS Wimbledon. Photo credit should read: Steven Paston\/PA Wire. RESTRICTIONS: Editorial use only. No commercial use without prior written consent of the AELTC. Still image use only - no moving images to emulate broadcast. No superimposing or removal of sponsor\/ad logos.\" class=\"wp-image-2448748\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Nick Kyrgios is confident despite playing just one match all year ahead of Wimbledon (Photo: PA)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_113335579.jpg\" alt=\"Australia's Nick Kyrgios returns the ball to Chile's Cristian Garin during their men's singles quarter final tennis match on the tenth day of the 2022 Wimbledon Championships at The All England Tennis Club in Wimbledon, southwest London, on July 6, 2022. (Photo by Glyn KIRK \/ AFP) \/ RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE (Photo by GLYN KIRK\/AFP via Getty Images)\" class=\"wp-image-1727573\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Kyrgios hits a winner en route to the semi-finals (Photo: AFP)<\/p>\n<p>Years of injuries take toll<\/p>\n<p>My body hasn\u2019t been able to do what my mind expects it to do. Coming to terms with being near the end of my career has been harder than I ever imagined. None of that excuses what I did.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Nick Kyrgios said in a written statement<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_113339391-1.jpg\" alt=\"Australia's Nick Kyrgios reacts as he plays against Chile's Cristian Garin during their men's singles quarter final tennis match on the tenth day of the 2022 Wimbledon Championships at The All England Tennis Club in Wimbledon, southwest London, on July 6, 2022. (Photo by SEBASTIEN BOZON \/ AFP) \/ RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE (Photo by SEBASTIEN BOZON\/AFP via Getty Images)\" class=\"wp-image-1727924\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Kyrgios is through to the semi-finals at Wimbledon (Photo: AFP)<\/p>\n<p>How worried should you be about UK salmonella outbreak<\/p>\n<p>One person has died and more than 200 have fallen ill amid a UK-wide salmonella outbreak, with health officials linking the cases to the consumption of imported eggs.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"900\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308796990.jpg\" alt=\"Young man cooking in light kitchen at home.\" class=\"wp-image-4716465\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Caption: Young man cooking in light kitchen at home.<br \/>Photographer: Tatiana Maksimova<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: Moment RF<\/p>\n<p>\nSource being investigated\n<\/p>\n<p>The patients affected appear to have eaten the contaminated eggs in restaurants and cafes, not at home. Those affected include babies and people as old as 90.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"512\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308797085.jpg\" alt=\"Medical illustration of drug-resistant Salmonella Typhi bacteria, 2019. Image courtesy CDC. (Photo by Smith Collection\/Gado\/Getty Images)\" class=\"wp-image-4716463\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"  \/>Caption: Medical illustration of drug-resistant Salmonella Typhi bacteria, 2019. Image courtesy CDC. (Photo by Smith Collection\/Gado\/Getty Images)<br \/>Photographer: Smith Collection\/Gado<br \/>Provider: Gado via Getty Images<br \/>Source: Archive Photos<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"711\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308797088.jpg\" alt=\"SAN FRANCISCO - NOVEMBER 16: A chicken walks through Heidi Kooy's yard which she calls the &quot;Itty Bitty Farm in the City&quot; November 16, 2009 in San Francisco, California. Heidi Kooy is one of many Americans that have started to raise chickens in their urban yards to try and save money on food costs during the economic downturn and to find a safer alternative to factory farmed food. Chickens provide eggs and natural fertilizer for gardens while eating the bugs that could harm the crops. (Photo by Justin Sullivan\/Getty Images)\" class=\"wp-image-4716462\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover;width:195px\"  \/>Caption: SAN FRANCISCO \u2013 NOVEMBER 16:  A chicken walks through Heidi Kooy\u2019s yard which she calls the \u201cItty Bitty Farm in the City\u201d November 16, 2009 in San Francisco, California. Heidi Kooy is one of many Americans that have started to raise chickens in their urban yards to try and save money on food costs during the economic downturn and to find a safer alternative to factory farmed food. Chickens provide eggs and natural fertilizer for gardens while eating the bugs that could harm the crops.  (Photo by Justin Sullivan\/Getty Images)<br \/>Photographer: Justin Sullivan<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: Getty Images North America<br \/>Copyright: 2009 Getty Images<\/p>\n<p>The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has ruled out UK-produced eggs or poultry as the source and said the evidence suggests imported eggs are responsible.<\/p>\n<p>Where have the cases been?<\/p>\n<p>Most cases have been in England, including 47 in London and 38 in Yorkshire and the Humber. There have been six cases in Scotland, one in Wales and another in Northern Ireland.<\/p>\n<p>Officials have found that all of the cases are linked to a single strain of salmonella.<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/health\/peptides-weight-loss-muscle-growth-anti-ageing-dangers-4699503?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308070783-e1786543301585.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_label\">Newsletter (\u00a3)<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">5 min read<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/health\/high-protein-snacks-less-healthy-what-avoid-4684255?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_307292481-e1785772368117.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_label\">Analysis<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">3 min read<\/p>\n<p>How worried should you be?<\/p>\n<p>More than a third of those affected have needed hospital care \u2013 however, most people get better without treatment.<\/p>\n<p>Salmonella generally causes a mild illness, though vulnerable people may experience severe illness.<\/p>\n<p>There are simple steps to prevent the spread of salmonella, including washing your hands after using the bathroom and before handling food.<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/world\/america-spends-healthcare-sicker-4693896?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308731670.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">5 min read<\/p>\n<p>What are the symptoms?<\/p>\n<p>Hannah Charles, the UKHSA\u2019s lead epidemiologist for gastrointestinal infections said: \u201cSymptoms of a salmonella infection include diarrhoea, stomach cramps and sometimes vomiting and fever.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cAnyone who is concerned about symptoms should contact their GP or out-of-hours service in the first instance.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>To prevent the spread, she advised: \u201cWash your hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and before preparing and handling food, cook food thoroughly.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIf you have any symptoms, avoid handling food for others where possible.\u201d.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308801718.jpg\" alt=\"Collage of mouths, speech bubbles and grammar symbols on blue background\" class=\"wp-image-4716525\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Caption: Collage of mouths, speech bubbles and grammar symbols on blue background<br \/>Photographer: We Are<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: Digital Vision<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--badge\">society<\/p>\n<p>The mispronounced words Britons struggle with the most<\/p>\n<p>The most commonly mangled words in the UK have been revealed in a new survey, as well as our attitudes surrounding pronunciation.<\/p>\n<p>Here is everything you need to know.<\/p>\n<p>What you need to know<\/p>\n<p>OnePoll has conducted a survey on the most commonly mispronounced words in the UK.<\/p>\n<p>The research was commissioned by Czech car manufacturer Skoda to highlight the fact that many Britons pronounce the brand\u2019s name wrong \u2013 \u201cS-co-der\u201d instead of the correct \u201cSh-co-da\u201d.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308801068.jpg\" alt=\"Three beautiful young people socialise at a table while enjoying hot drinks. They are animated as they giggle together. One girl is in the foreground whilst focus remains on a smiling male and female.\" class=\"wp-image-4716513\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Caption: Three beautiful young people socialise at a table while enjoying hot drinks.  They are animated as they giggle together. One girl is in the foreground whilst focus remains on a smiling male and female.<br \/>Photographer: Catherine Falls Commercial<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: Moment RF<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/food-editor-seven-great-buys-asda-pasta-butter-4712687?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308748987.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">3 min read<\/p>\n<p>\nMispronounced words \u2013 and the correct pronunciations\n<\/p>\n<p>1Acai: Ah-sigh-ee<\/p>\n<p>2Segue: Segway<\/p>\n<p>3Charcuterie: Shar-koo-tuh-ree<\/p>\n<p>4Quinoa: Keen-wa<\/p>\n<p>\nMispronounced words \u2013 and the correct pronunciations\n<\/p>\n<p>5 Gnocchi: Nyock-kee<\/p>\n<p>6 Worcestershire: Wus-ter-sher<\/p>\n<p>7 Chipotle: Chi-poht-lay<\/p>\n<p>A closer look at the survey<\/p>\n<p>The survey also revealed how Britons feel about mispronounced words.<\/p>\n<p>85 per cent of respondents had someone correct them after a mispronunciation, with 25 per cent feeling embarrassed afterwards.<\/p>\n<p>27 per cent admitted they continued using the wrong pronunciation anyway. <\/p>\n<p>52 per cent thought it shows respect for language, while 38 per cent thought it made them appear more knowledgeable.<\/p>\n<p>34 per cent thought it made them seem more professional.<\/p>\n<p>38 per cent said that the way someone pronounces words could affect the impression they have of them.<\/p>\n<p>How Ikea is taking on eBay and Vinted with second-hand site<\/p>\n<p>Ikea is set to launch its own second-hand selling site later this year, which will allow shoppers signed up to its membership to buy and sell pre-owned Ikea items locally.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"900\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308803380.jpg\" alt=\"Young Asian man assembling furniture with screwdriver, setting up new home. Doing DIY at home.\" class=\"wp-image-4716571\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Caption: Young Asian man assembling furniture with screwdriver, setting up new home. Doing DIY at home.<br \/>Photographer: Oscar Wong<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: Moment RF<\/p>\n<p>Already trialled in other countries<\/p>\n<p>The scheme follows trials of online second-hand marketplaces in Spain and Norway. <\/p>\n<p>It also comes five years after the world\u2019s biggest furniture retailer began buying and selling used Ikea items in some of its UK stores.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308803186.jpg\" alt=\"April 24, 2025 Stockholm Sweden, exterior view of Ikea building on the street in the city center with shop windows\" class=\"wp-image-4716572\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"  \/>Caption: April 24, 2025 Stockholm Sweden, exterior view of Ikea building on the street in the city center with shop windows<br \/>Photographer: Sheviakova kateryna<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: iStock Editorial<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/money\/property-and-mortgages\/areas-hardest-sell-home-mapped-4714169?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308738620.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">2 min read<\/p>\n<p>Perks for users<\/p>\n<p>On the Spanish version, selling is made easier with price suggestions given by Ikea and pre-filled product descriptions.<\/p>\n<p>Ikea also offers sellers 15 per cent extra on the price of the item if they agree to be paid with an Ikea gift card.<\/p>\n<p>A similar system to Vinted of paying a 5 per cent \u201cprotection fee\u201d is being implemented in Spain from January next year to fund various costs related to the sale.<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/money\/pensions-and-retirement\/private-pension-age-rise-impact-retirement-4711729?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308654526.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_label\">Explained<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">2 min read<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/inews-theme\/assets\/images\/chevron.svg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>When will the drought come to an end?<\/p>\n<p>Over 70 per cent of England and all of Wales are <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/politics\/45-million-drought-no-rain-sight-4697190?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">currently in drought<\/a>. Nine water companies have <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/seven-bizarre-hosepipe-ban-loopholes-allow-keep-watering-4683440?srsltid=AfmBOoqZDCdQYHLXlfc6DWcf7USeMn-E2fFQVjuaBFPoxSJAVOe12GUX&amp;ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">introduced hosepipe bans<\/a>, affecting more than 27 million people across England and Wales \u2013 Severn Trent Water and South Staffordshire Water have both asked for customers to cut back on usage.<\/p>\n<p>Most of the UK will see some form of rain this week, however, the areas that need it the most will not see enough. <\/p>\n<p>On Friday, the Environment Agency said <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/eight-reservoirs-risk-running-out-water-4677594?srsltid=AfmBOoowLxqgmtQKq8oG9XOtSqAunQlon-ueAPyGAXPEJShXWRqnr2Sb&amp;ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">reservoir storage in England had fallen<\/a> to 65.9 per cent, which is 13.8 per cent below the average for this time of year. Most <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/132-worst-rivers-england-pollution-four-clean-4691427?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">river<\/a> levels are below normal, with almost a third of sites now considered exceptionally low, the regulator said.<\/p>\n<p>A drought is considered over when water resources, including reservoirs, rivers and groundwater, return to normal levels, which usually takes several months of above average rainfall.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"507\" width=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SEI_308201624.jpg\" alt=\"Woodhead reservoir near Manchester, England, Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026, as more than two-thirds of the UK suffers under drought conditions. (AP Photo\/Jon Super)\" class=\"wp-image-4710679\"  \/>Almost three quarters of England is currently in drought, while water bills have risen by an average of \u00a3156 in the past two years (Photo: Jon Super\/AP)<\/p>\n<p>Following last summer\u2019s dry weather, some parts of the UK remained in drought until January this year and some hosepipe bans remained in place until February. <\/p>\n<p>\u201cRivers, reservoirs and groundwater stores tend to respond much more slowly than the weather itself,\u201d said Dr Jonathan Eden, Associate Professor in Climate and Environmental Change at Coventry University.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIn many areas, we would need several weeks of sustained rainfall, and in some cases months, before water resources recover to more normal levels.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Could more water companies introduce hosepipe bans?<\/p>\n<p>Despite the rain, it\u2019s possible that more water companies could be compelled to introduce hosepipe bans before the winter. <\/p>\n<p>It is up to water companies to introduce hosepipe bans, while the EA \u2013 or equivalent regulator in the devolved nations \u2013 is responsible for declaring a drought. <\/p>\n<p>There has been some tension between the regulators and water companies on this, and the EA has been critical of some water companies for not introducing hosepipe bans sooner.<\/p>\n<p>For example, the EA is warning that Britain\u2019s longest river, the <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/river-severn-running-low-4714220?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">River Severn<\/a>, is at risk of drying out, which would be catastrophic for the <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/topic\/environment?srsltid=AfmBOoq6vybThOAXpEt_ayuyDCollh9BWAV-a_hjpm7vWld3tIRG32IK&amp;ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">environment<\/a>. However, the main water company in the region, Severn Trent, is yet to introduce a hosepipe ban.<\/p>\n<p>A spokesperson for the EA told The i Paper it \u201cencourages an earlier use of Temporary Use Bans to protect public water supplies and preserve the environment\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>A plan under consideration by <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/how-water-companies-charge-more-during-drought-4710607?srsltid=AfmBOop4j5_YZJGE0SMXXNYT_T6B15LO3PGSI7UF22yVgqhpLik4YUfQ&amp;ico=in-line_link\" id=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/how-water-companies-charge-more-during-drought-4710607?srsltid=AfmBOop4j5_YZJGE0SMXXNYT_T6B15LO3PGSI7UF22yVgqhpLik4YUfQ\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Ofwat may also allow water companies to use dynamic pricing at times of drought<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>How much rain do we need for restrictions to end?<\/p>\n<p>After two months of virtually no rain, parts of the UK will need months of above-average rainfall for restrictions to be lifted. <\/p>\n<p>In a briefing on Tuesday, Met Office meteorologist Aidan McGivern explained England and Wales has received 150mm less rainfall than average since April. To put that into perspective, the average rainfall for the whole of September in England is 68.5mm. <\/p>\n<p>McGivern said it was \u201ctoo simplistic\u201d to say England and Wales needed 150mm of rainfall to end the drought, particularly as the hot weather has caused water to evaporate more quickly leading to \u201ceven more of a sorry state in terms of dry ground\u201d. <\/p>\n<p>What\u2019s clear is that \u201cit\u2019s not going to happen overnight\u201d, he added.<\/p>\n<p>Will we be saved by a wet winter?<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s clear England and Wales need a wet autumn and winter to replenish rivers and <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/politics\/areas-new-reservoirs-finished-first-why-long-build-4700022?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">reservoirs<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>This happened last winter following the summer 2025 drought and saved parts of Britain from water shortages. <\/p>\n<p>As Britain\u2019s weather changes due to <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/topic\/climate-change?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">climate change<\/a>, it is generally expected that our summers will become drier and our winters will become wetter.<\/p>\n<p>McGivern said a couple of factors \u201cload the dice\u201d towards Britain having a wet winter, including the <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/el-nino-change-uk-month-year-longer-4646590?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">upcoming El Ni\u00f1o<\/a>, which typically brings heavier rainfall to the UK in the colder months.<\/p>\n<p>Another factor is the current high <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/topic\/ocean-temperature?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">sea temperatures<\/a>, which loads the atmosphere with excess moisture.<\/p>\n<p>However, there are many factors that impact the UK\u2019s weather and a wet winter is not a given. <\/p>\n<p>In the shorter term, forecasts are suggesting there could be another heatwave in September, but these predictions come with a level of uncertainty. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"It\u2019s finally raining in the south of the UK, bringing to an end the over 60 day dry&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":743150,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[556,1047,59,57,58,50,1039,56,54,55,1068,38791],"class_list":["post-743149","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-united-kingdom","tag-climate-change","tag-drought","tag-gb","tag-great-britain","tag-greatbritain","tag-news","tag-rain","tag-uk","tag-united-kingdom","tag-unitedkingdom","tag-weather","tag-weather-forecasts"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/743149","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=743149"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/743149\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/743150"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=743149"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=743149"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=743149"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}