A water company is appealing for the people of Tyneside to use water wisely as the region could be facing the driest June since 1976.
Northumbrian Water have issued advice to customers after water demand across the North East has risen due to the use of hot tubs, paddling pools and hosepipes.
While water resources remain in a healthy position, the water company are reminding customers that the environmental impact of wasting water should be carefully considered.
The additional demand currently within the region equates to around 360 extra litres used per second – which is the equivalent of 86,400 cups of tea per minute.
According to the Met Office, the region has only seen 10% of rainfall compared to what is normally expect so far this month– which is why the water company has launched an appeal for Tyneside residents to be more mindful of their water usage in a bid to protect the environment.
Only 6.1mm of rainfall has fallen in the North East, compared to the June average of 63mm of rain – and since 2015 UK water demand has increased by 12%.
Martin Lunn, Head of Water Service Planning at Northumbrian Water, said: “Fresh water is not in infinite supply, and our population is growing with increased urbanisation.
“Although we're used to managing demand and have tried and tested plans in place, we still need customers to play their part by using water wisely, so that we can continue to manage supplies and keep the water flowing.
“Our water stores remain healthy for this time of year, but using things like hot tubs or paddling pools can pull heavily on our resources – so if you do decide to use things like this, make sure you get the best out of them.
“For example, if you’re using a paddling pool this weekend, you can re-use the water afterwards to water your plants or wash your car.
"Even small changes can make a big difference, so make sure you’re doing all you can to be mindful this summer.”
Research has shown that a paddling pool can use up to 450L of water, and a hot tub can use up to 1,500L – which is the equivalent of 882 standard-sized kettles.
It also showed that using a hosepipe for one hour can use 100 litres of water – which is the equivalent of one-and-a-a-quarter bathtubs. Whereas keeping a water butt in your garden can collect up to 200L in a more environmentally-friendly way.
For more information on how to save water, go to www.nwl.co.uk/summer.