A hosepipe ban for Carlow and Kilkenny will take effect on Friday

The entire country is under a hosepipe ban from Friday until the end of August.

Uisce Éireann is extending a Water Conservation Order nationwide to help protect public water supplies for homes, businesses and essential services.

The recent spell of hot weather, which is forecast to continue, combined with well-below average rainfall, has led to exceptionally high water demand, placing increasing pressure on both raw water sources and treated drinking water supplies.

The ban prohibits activities including watering gardens with a hose and washing private cars.