Shocking images of a Bolton reservoir have shown the impact of weeks of hot weather and relatively little rain.
Large islands have appeared at Jumbles Reservoir in Bradshaw and the water level has dropped dramatically in recent days.
Ongoing hot weather conditions have led to a general fall in water stocks across the North West, according to data from United Utilities.
The latest figures, from May 24, show reservoirs across the region are holding just 73% of their capacity compared to a yearly average of 87% for May.
And, in the Pennine area around Bolton stocks have dipped even further to 67%.
But, a spokesperson for United Utilities has moved to explain that the shrinking pool at Jumbles should not be a concern for local residents.
They said: “The water level at Jumbles Reservoir in Bolton is normal for this time of year.
"Jumbles is not used for drinking water purposes, but solely designed to maintain a constant flow into Bradshaw Brook and on towards the River Irwell.”
Forecasters expect conditions to remain warm around Greater Manchester in the coming days.
According to the latest Met Office reports, temperatures will stay above 20C until at least Thursday next week.
It is also unlikely to rain over the next seven days, with forecasts showing no greater than a 10% chance of precipitation on any day in the next week.
