The sweltering heat has had the nation glugging more water this week in a bid to cool down and rehydrate, as temperatures in Bristol reached a record-breaking 36C. And if you've noticed a slight change of taste in your tap water, you're not alone.
Bristol Water has said it's nothing to worry about and that the normal taste should return soon if it hasn't already, with the Met Office forecast for the city predicting highs of a much more bearable 24C in the coming days. Sometimes during hot weather the water supply is redirected, meaning it could arrive in your tap from a different treatment works or reservoir than usual.
Despite temperatures having cooled down, the issue was reported earlier this month even before the heatwave hit. One Bristol Water customer on Twitter that their water tasted "metallic/swampy" and was "tepid" rather than cold, to which another person suggested hot weather could be to blame.
Read more: Thunderstorm warning issued for Bristol
In a statement on its website this week, the water provider advised: "During times like these we often make changes within our network of pipes. We might temporarily redirect your water supply so that it comes from a different treatment works or reservoir than usual.
"This may mean you notice your water tastes a little bit different to normal – don’t worry though, this will return to normal as temperatures start to cool down again."
It also said that during hot weather, the water pressure in homes might drop, particularly during peak usage times. The statement explained: "As temperatures rise, water use tends to increase as we all try to cool down with showers, hoses and paddling pools which increases the demand on our network.
"During this heatwave we’re asking everyone to please consider your water use and whether it’s essential. This is especially important during peak times so that we can ensure everyone has a sufficient amount of water.
"For instance, it’s absolutely essential that we all keep hydrated, but there are other ways that we can stay nice and cool without filling up a large pool, such as seeking shade or taking a break from the sun by sitting inside. Whilst we’re asking you to be mindful, we’re working hard in the background to try and keep everyone in water during periods of high demand."
Although cooler conditions have returned, the Met Office's UK weather outlook for next week predicts "very warm" temperatures could be back, particularly in the South East. A thunderstorm warning has been issued for Bristol tomorrow (Friday) along with much of the South West region.
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