Southern Water Faces Major Supply Crisis Affecting Tens of Thousands Across Kent

Water Crisis Grips Kent Communities

Southern Water is grappling with a significant supply crisis affecting tens of thousands of households across Kent, as multiple challenges converge to threaten water availability in the region. Approximately 76,000 properties across Thanet remain at risk of supply disruption, whilst around 19,000 properties could be impacted across the Medway Towns, as well as villages near Sittingbourne and Maidstone, including Boxley, Detling, Hartlip and Bobbing.

The crisis has emerged from a perfect storm of operational challenges. UK Power Networks experienced a power outage which affected key Water Supply Works (WSW), including Selling WSW and Wingham WSW, both sites producing water that helps fill up the Fleete Reservoir in Manston. Events including Storm Goretti, freezing conditions and a power outage in parts of Kent have resulted in reduced levels in some drinking water storage reservoirs.

Emergency Response and Customer Support

Southern Water has mobilised emergency measures to support affected communities. As a precaution, the company started delivering bottled water to customers on its Priority Services Register across Thanet, with more than 8,500 customers on the priority services register receiving deliveries. The company has also established bottled water stations to ensure continued access for residents.

The company is working around the clock to maintain service, moving water around the network and deploying tankers to keep supply stable. Despite these efforts, challenges persist in some areas, with food businesses in Maidstone ordered to close without running water due to hygiene concerns.

Long-term Investment and Future Outlook

Amid the immediate crisis, Southern Water is positioning itself for future challenges. The company has secured additional equity investment to fund its ambitious £6bn investment programme over 5 years, with the £900 million equity commitment expected to be fully drawn by 30 June 2026. This substantial investment signals recognition that infrastructure improvements are essential to prevent future disruptions.

For affected residents, the situation remains fluid. Current projections indicate potential customer impact on Tuesday 13 January, but the situation is improving as long as sites continue running. As climate change intensifies weather extremes, the resilience of water infrastructure has never been more critical for communities across the South East.