New York state officials on Tuesday expanded a drought watch designation to a majority of the 62 counties after continued stretches of dry weather this summer, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced. 

"While recent rains have helped, severe dry conditions continue to persist across the state," Hochul said. "New Yorkers should take steps to conserve water whenever possible in the areas now under a designated drought watch. Simple steps to reduce water consumption will be crucial to our efforts to help prevent any increased drought levels."  

Westchester County, along with New York City, and counties along the Eastern Great Lakes and in the Adirondacks are the only ones not affected by the drought watch expansion. 

The move does not place any mandatory water use rules or restrictions in effect. But state officials are nevertheless urging residents to water their laws only when necessary, reuse water collected in rain barrels, dehumidifiers or air conditioners to water plants, raise lawn mower cutting heights and use a broom to clean driveways and sidewalks, not a hose. 

"This year's below normal precipitation and above-normal temperatures continue to combine to exacerbate low stream flows, reduced groundwater levels, and ongoing wildfire risk," Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos said. "DEC will continue to monitor water levels and the environmental impacts of the dry conditions and encourage residents throughout the state to monitor usage and avoid wasting water."