Water supplies disrupted in Walberton and Slindon during essential maintenance work

The work was scheduled to begin at 10.20am, with Portsmouth Water warning customers could be without water for up to seven hours.

The affected roads are Shellbridge Road, Yapton Lane, Binsted Lane, Hedgers Hill and Chichester Road.

Portsmouth Water advised residents to store enough tap water for drinking during the interruption and avoid using washing machines, dishwashers and other water-dependent appliances while supplies are switched off.

Central heating systems are not expected to be affected, while properties with cold-water storage cisterns should retain some reserve for essential sanitary needs, including flushing toilets.

A spokesperson for Portsmouth Water said: “Slight discoloration of the water may occur when the supply is restored so we would recommend checking that the water is clear before using washing machines or other appliances. We would in any case advise that water using appliances (washing machines, dishwashers etc.) should not be used during the shutdown period.

“If you do experience any discolouration of the water supply, this is normal following such events and poses no health risk to the water supply system. To address this, we would recommend you run your cold kitchen tap for 10 minutes or until clear. For further guidance about this, please refer to our water quality information page at portsmouthwater.co.uk/water-quality/

“We apologise for any noise or inconvenience that our activities may cause you but we will endeavour to keep this to a minimum and thank you for your patience whilst we undertake these essential works.

"If your water supply does not return to normal after we restore the supply, please contact us on 023 9247 7999. Our staff are available on this number 24 hrs a day to provide further advice or if necessary, arrange for a company representative or plumber to call. They will rectify any problem which is found to be due to this interruption to supply, free of charge.”