A hosepipe ban has been announced for most of Hampshire, which will come into force from 9am on Monday, July 21.
It will ban the use of a hosepipe for activities such as watering the garden, washing the car or filling a paddling pool.
Southern Water has brought in the temporary use ban after the driest spring in over 100 years and the hottest June on record.
The Test and Itchen chalk streams, the primary water sources for the regions, are at critically low levels, with flows down 24%.
BBC News adds: "The restrictions will apply to 791,000 customers in 336,000 properties in Hampshire as well as 144,000 customers in 75,000 properties on the Isle of Wight."
Hosepipe ban rules for Hampshire Southern Water customers
Ahead of the hosepipe ban being implemented on Monday, you might be wondering what rules you need to follow, so you don’t risk being fined.
All households that are supplied water by Southern Water must stop using hosepipes until further notice for:
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Watering the garden or plants in your garden at home
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Cleaning private vehicles or boats
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Filling or maintaining a swimming pool, paddling pool, hot tub or cold-water plunge pool at home
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Filling or maintaining a domestic pond or ornamental fountain
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Cleaning your home’s walls or windows yourself
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Cleaning paths, patios or artificial outdoor surfaces
You'll still be able to use a watering can or bucket to water your garden and for other activities.
Southern Water adds: "Customers on our Priority Services Register with medical or mobility needs, including Blue Badge holders and those on our WaterSure tariff, are exempt."
What happens if you use a hosepipe during a ban?
Customers who ignore the ban could face fines of up to £1,000, but Southern Water has said they "hope it doesn’t come to that".
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Southern Water confirms hosepipe ban will come into force in Hampshire
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Work begins on £100m pipeline to boost Southampton’s water supply
Its website adds: "We aim to communicate first, providing information about why it’s important not to use a hosepipe during restrictions, but enforcement may follow for repeated or serious breaches.
"Water companies can ask customers to follow a hosepipe ban under the Flood and Water Management Act 2010.
"The Act gives us powers to fine customers up to £1,000 if they ignore it."
