Thames Water has confirmed that its hosepipe ban will remain in place for millions of customers across London, the Thames Valley, and surrounding areas until the region experiences "significant and prolonged rainfall." Although September has been wetter than usual, the company says the rain has not been enough to make up for an unusually dry spring and summer. Rainfall between March and August was less than half of the long-term average, with August recording just 28mm of rain across the Thames catchment—only 43 per cent of the usual amount. September rainfall also fell far below average. By mid-September, London’s reservoirs had dropped to 59 per cent capacity, much lower than the typical 78 per cent for this time of year. Farmoor Reservoir, near Oxford, was at 75 per cent, compared to its usual 93 per cent. Julie Morton, head of water resources at Thames Water, noted that while the September rain is "very welcome," it has not been enough to reverse the effects of the prolonged dry spell. Groundwater and soil moisture levels remain significantly below average, and more substantial and sustained rainfall is needed before the hosepipe restrictions can be lifted. The hosepipe ban, which was introduced in July, affects more than 10 million customers. It restricts the use of tap water for activities such as watering gardens, washing cars, or filling pools, in an effort to conserve water during the ongoing drought. Thames Water continues to monitor weather conditions and water levels closely, with updates expected as the situation evolves.