''Scattered showers” are expected to cross Ireland by the end of the week.
It appears some relief may be on the way for those who have been placed under water restrictions by Irish Water, with at least some rainfall being forecast later this week.
Up to 8,000 consumers in Athlone, Co Westmeath, have been placed on reduced pressure overnight. While 5,000 are also being affected in Portlaoise.
Concerns have also been raised about supply levels in Galway city and coastal areas as tourists head to the seaside over the weekend.
Met Éireann has said that a week of sustained rainfall would be necessary before the lakes and rivers start to recover from the drought. This is due to the fact that moisture levels in the soil are so low, and need time to replenish.
The latest forecast is for “scattered showers” from Wednesday onwards, but temperatures will remain in the low 20s over the weekend.
