ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – Drought conditions in New York are improving.

On November 5, the DEC downgraded 21 counties from a drought warning to a drought watch, citing improvements in streamflow and groundwater.

“Thankfully, rain is providing communities across the state with some needed relief, resulting in downgrading from warning to watch in the Adirondacks, Southern Tier, and Great Lakes-area counties,” said DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton.

However, despite increased rainfall, water levels are still below normal in much of the state.

“While recent rainfall improved dry conditions for many counties in New York, drought watch remains in effect for much of the state and New Yorkers are asked to continue water conservation efforts,” added Lefton. “DEC experts continue to monitor conditions and coordinate closely with the Drought Management Task Force to issue recommendations that help protect our water supplies.”

Every county outside of Westchester and New York City remains under a drought watch, which is the first and least serious of four advisories: watch, warning, emergency, and disaster. Under a watch, there are no statewide mandatory water use restrictions in place, but residents are strongly encouraged to voluntarily conserve water.

You can keep up to date with current drought conditions from the DEC website.