A hosepipe ban by Yorkshire Water is set to affect five million people.
The ban, taking effect from Friday, July 11, is in response to reservoir levels falling to just over half capacity, around 26 per cent lower than normal for this time of year.
Dr Jess Neumann, associate professor of hydrology at the University of Reading, said: "Just weeks after a drought was declared in parts of northeast England, Yorkshire Water is the first water company to implement a hosepipe ban.
She added: "We have just had the driest spring in nearly 100 years, but even after the recent rain over the past week or so, this has not been enough to prevent restrictions.
"Despite some heavy downpours, there has not been enough rain to compensate for the dry weather over the longer term."
She said more restrictions could follow if the dry weather continues.
Dr Neumann said: "As parts of the country are likely to face a third heatwave this summer in the coming week, we may see more water restrictions imposed across other parts of the country as well.
"People should be mindful of their water use, because lots of small actions multiplied by the whole population can make a huge difference.
"Actions such as turning taps off while brushing your teeth, taking shorter showers, using a watering can, watching your lawn turn a golden yellow, and capturing and re-using rainwater in your garden will all make a difference."
Dr Neumann wants long-term change in how water is managed.
She said: "Water companies can and should invest in their infrastructure, but changing the course that the UK is taking towards future water shortages will require a bigger and more ambitious programme of long-term change to our buildings, homes and industries."
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