Anglian Water has revealed whether Storm Austen will bring an end to the hosepipe ban in Norfolk.
The ban, which has been in place across the county since July 11, was introduced following weeks of extreme heat and temperatures above 35C.
It restricts the use of hosepipes for watering gardens, cleaning private vehicles and filling or maintaining swimming pools, paddling pools and hot tubs.
The hosepipe ban, introduced during the hot summer, will likely be in place into the new year. (Image: PA Media)
With Storm Austen expected to hit the UK, some have questioned whether the rainfall could help lift water restrictions.
A spokesman for Anglian Water said: “The exceptionally dry and hot weather over the summer has left rivers, reservoirs and groundwater sources at lower levels than normal.
“These sources take time to recover and require sustained periods of rainfall over a much longer period, which could take several months depending on the area.
“We're continuing to closely monitor conditions and restrictions will remain in place until water resources have recovered sufficiently and returned closer to normal levels.
“We’d like to thank everyone who has continued to do their bit to save water and protect our water sources and the environment.”
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for Norfolk on Friday from 10am to 9pm, with strong winds expected across the region.
Storm Austen has been described as a "weather bomb". (Image: Newsquest)
Gusts of up to 47mph are forecast along the Norfolk coast, including Sheringham and Hunstanton, while inland areas such as Norwich could see winds reaching 41mph.
Experts warn of possible short-term power loss, transport disruption and large waves affecting coastal routes and communities.
High-sided vehicles may face delays on exposed roads and bridges and bus and train journeys could take longer than usual.
According to the weather app Weathergraph, Norwich will experience -3C wind chills from 7pm on Friday until 6am on Monday.
Met Office experts explain the wind chill factor “takes into account wind speeds and humidity to assess how the human body actually feels temperature”.
Share