Brits are facing the first hosepipe ban in 10 years with many water bosses around the country warning people to use less water.
The record breaking hot weather this week has added to the concern over dropping water levels in reservoirs especially in the south of the country.
Coral bookmakers have now suspended betting on there being a hosepipe ban in the UK this summer. The last imposed was in 2012 which covered seven areas including Southern, Anglian and Thames Water.
Southern Water customers in Hampshire have been urged to reduce water use "wherever possible" to protect the River Test. The river, which flows between Totton and Southampton has been labelled a vital source of fresh water for south Hampshire, reported HampshireLive.
Water levels in the River Test are falling and current forecasting reportedly shows a drought permit could be required to ensure the river can continue to serve as a resource to supply tap water to the region.
Southern Water says a drought permit, from the Environment Agency, would be necessary to help protect the environment and health of the river.
River flows have dropped from 2,500million litres a day in March to 500million now.
A hose pipe ban could affect one million people and fines for failing to comply would stand at £1,000.
Southern Water stated on its website: "This of course is a situation that can change over the coming days and weeks, and we will be continuing to work closely with the Environment Agency. While in the process of applying for a drought permit, we urge and remind all customers in Hampshire to reduce water use wherever possible, to help us protect the impact on the river’s habitat."
Dr Nick Price, Water Asset Strategy and Planning Manager at Southern Water, reportedly said: "With river flows dropping following a dry winter and spring, the risk is increasing that we will need to use a drought permit in order to continue supplying water. The less we take out of the River Test for water supply, the more we leave in it for wildlife and to support its precious habitats. We continue to ask customers to use water wisely.”
Elsewhere around the country Welsh Water have advised people to be careful over their water usage as have other water authorities including Severn Trent Water and South Staffs Water.
Dwr Cymru/Welsh Water said: "While water resources in the majority of Wales are in a good position, there is a slight concern about the situation in Pembrokeshire. While this shouldn't have any immediate impact, if the there is no significant rain between now and the end of August, some level of restriction may be required later in the summer."
South Staffs Water said it may consider temporary bans if the heatwave continued for an extended period and customers did not reduce their non-essential use.
