Scotland's environment agency has issued a warning that the country's water shortage will likely worsen quickly.
Most of the nation has been placed on early warning due to the forecast for scant rainfall over the upcoming few weeks.
According to the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa), Wester Ross's Loch Maree is where the problem is most severe.
However, after a period of warm, dry weather, large portions of Scotland's north-west as well as its southern and central regions have also been upgraded to alert status.
Throughout the summer, Sepa releases weekly reports on the availability of water.
Only a small portion of Scotland's northeast is depicted in the most recent image under normal circumstances.
To determine whether any limitations should be implemented, the situation is being closely watched.
When using water from small rivers or burns, farmers and golf courses have been asked to only use what is necessary.
In June, Sepa predicted that Scotland would experience mostly calm weather, but that the remainder of the summer would be "double as likely" to be hotter than usual.
Nathan Critchlow-Watton, its director of water and planning, said: "The water scarcity picture in Scotland is just one of the consequences of climate change the country is facing, and its frequency and severity is only likely to increase in the future.
"Water restrictions may still be necessary over the summer, even though this is a critical time of year for water demand. ".
He urged everyone to "manage water wisely" in the ensuing weeks and months.
Scottish Water has also urged people to use water as sparingly as possible in their homes and gardens to help safeguard water resources.
It claimed that it was attempting to make sure that its systems could handle demand.
According to it, there are a variety of ways the general public can conserve water.
- utilizing a watering can as opposed to a hose.
- showering less frequently.
- when brushing teeth, shutting off the faucet.
- only using the dishwasher and washing machine when they are completely loaded.
- utilizing a bucket and sponge rather than a hose to wash the car.
Kes Juskowiak, general manager of the provider's customer water services, stated: "We're working hard to maintain normal supplies for all but would request that customers think about how they use water and to protect this precious resource.
. "