A hosepipe ban could be implemented across England from next month if the hot weather continues.
Temperatures topped 40C in the UK for the first time ever last week, as the sweltering heat fuelled fires and widespread transport disruption.
Amid the heatwave a major incident was declared in London in response to a surge in fires across the capital, including a devastating fire in Wennington to the east of the city which ripped through homes and fields.
Demand for water has already been on the rise following the surge in temperatures in recent weeks.
A hosepipe ban could be implemented across England
WikiCommons
Temperatures surged over 40C last week
Gareth Fuller
And if the hot weather continues, a drought could be declared for the first time since 2018.
As a result of the heatwave, the National Drought Group are meeting today to discuss how to reduce the chances of water shortages.
Measures they could introduce include hosepipe bans and urging households to reduce the amount of water they use.
The last time a hosepipe ban was implemented was back in 2012 following a lack of rain in an 18-month period.
A Water UK spokesman said: “Water companies are continuing to see extremely high demand and are urging everyone to carefully consider the amount of water they are using at this time.
“The ongoing dry, warm weather in much of the country follows the driest winter and spring since the 1970s, leading to reduced river flows that need to be protected.
“Water companies have plans in place to manage water resources and safeguard the environment and are doing everything they can, including working closely with Government and regulators, to minimise the need for any restrictions,” as quoted by The Telegraph.