The Spanish region of Catalonia has declared a state of emergency as it faces its worst drought on record.

From Thursday, residents will be banned from washing their cars and filling up empty swimming pools.

Other initial emergency restrictions include a sharp reduction in the use of water for crop farming and industry, and the capping of water supplies per inhabitant per day.

BBC News says more than six million Catalans will be affected across 200 towns and cities, including the capital Barcelona.

The restrictions were announced after reservoirs fell to close to 16% of their capacity.

While Spain is familiar with dry conditions, Catalonia – which borders southern France – is less used to such conditions,.

Restrictions were previously adopted in 2008.