A hosepipe ban is likely to be introduced to around 33,000 properties in parts of Wales this weekend, as record demand for water continues.
Welsh Water has warned that mid and south Ceredigion, along with parts of north Pembrokeshire and north Carmarthenshire could have restrictions.
It comes as prolonged hot, dry weather has driven demand for drinking water to unprecedented levels, with around one billion litres of water being put into supply every day during the past week.
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) have also confirmed that parts of the country was showing signs of strain because of the record-breaking heatwaves, and the worst affected areas would move to “prolonged dry weather status”.
Welsh Water said demand had risen 20% more than would normally be expected at this time of year, and a final decision will be made on temporary restrictions later this week.
The affected areas include Llanon, Llangwyryfon and Cwm Ystwyth in Ceredigion, across to Crymych, Llanfyrnach and Nevern in north Pembrokeshire.
Parts of north Carmarthenshire are also expected to be impacted, including Farmers, Pencader and Hermon.
Welsh Water said “unless demand reduces significantly over the next few days, there would be no option but to introduce temporary hosepipe restrictions”.
It added that restrictions would be lifted as soon as weather conditions improve and local storage returns to more normal levels.
