Scotland's water scarcity has worsened to the degree that four more areas face "critically" low levels, warns a government agency.
A new report from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) has found that more areas have reached "significant" scarcity - the highest possible level - affecting the rivers Annan and Nith in the southwest, the Black Isle, and the Outer Hebrides.
Sepa also warned that there has been no improvement in the Loch Maree area of the Highlands, which remains in the "significant" category for a fourth week, although the Esk in Dumfries and Galloway has improved to "moderate" level.
Without a period of consistent rain, Sepa said it is possible six areas could be escalated to "significant" water scarcity soon.
The report comes after widespread rainfall this week as heavy showers hit central and western Scotland. The rain has improved conditions in some areas, with further recovery in Argyll and Bute from "alert" to "early" warning.
However, these downpours have not been enough for a large-scale recovery and many areas remain at risk of water scarcity.
The environment agency has already instructed a number of farmers on the Black Isle to reduce the volume of water they abstract from the Newhall burn to try and prevent the situation becoming any worse.
Water users in other areas that have reached "significant" scarcity this week have also been contacted by Sepa, with some having conditions applied to their licence to protect the environment from low flows.
Scots were urged earlier this month to use water more responsibly amid fears shortages could become more widespread.
Sepa previously forecast 28 out of 83 areas would be put on the highest warning level by the end of June if there was no recovery of river levels.
Nathan Critchlow-Watton, head of water and planning at Sepa, said: "The water environment in parts of Scotland is clearly under stress and protecting it remains our top priority.
"We recognise the challenges businesses face as a result of these conditions, and we want to support those who are efficient and using the least water to continue operating."
He continued: "We will be avoiding full suspensions on water abstractions where possible and instead requiring a significant reduction in the volume of water taken from rivers and lochs."
"Where restrictions are not in place, abstractors are expected to follow Sepa's advice and guidance for the conditions reported in their areas. This will give water levels a better chance to recover."
The agency is currently liaising with licensed abstractors in all affected industries and advice is also being provided to abstractors in "alert" or "moderate" scarcity areas.
"Guidance has already been published on which abstractors may be excluded from restrictions or have the volume of water they can take reduced rather than stopped," said a spokesperson.
"This will not be possible for all abstractors. Sepa will be in direct contact with businesses affected to provide additional advice.
"Abstractors and irrigators are asked to manage water wisely, check Sepa's water scarcity reports regularly and be aware of the situation in their area.
"They should regularly check abstraction equipment to make sure it's in good condition and fix any leaks straight away. During dry periods, the volume and rate of abstractions should be reduced where possible.
"It is also crucial for businesses to have a contingency plan for if restrictions are put in place by Sepa on abstractions. This can include using an alternative source if available within current authorisations."
Visit Sepa's website for more information, guidance and advice.
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