Several other water companies have already introduced hosepipe bans, including Thames Water, Yorkshire Water and South East Water. People found to be using a hosepipe during a ban can be fined up to £1,000. Mr McMahon said: "We have to respond to the widespread and prolonged dry weather affecting our region.

Thames Water announced its hosepipe or temporary use ban (TUB) after the EA placed much of its area in its "prolonged dry weather" category, one away from drought status. The EA said it expects more water companies to follow with their own TUBs, although it will be dependent on rainfall and temperatures in the weeks ahead.

Southern Water has become the latest utility firm to announce a hosepipe ban, with almost a million of its customers in southern England hit by the new restrictions. At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.