The Pennsylvania Drought Task Force has announced that 33 counties, including Butler, have entered a drought watch, while Berks and Schuylkill counties are under a drought warning due to consistent dry conditions.

Drought declarations are based on four factors — precipitation, stream flows, groundwater levels and soil moisture.

It is not required, but residents and businesses are encouraged to voluntarily conserve water by reducing nonessential water use. Public water suppliers may request water conservation measures to ensure reliable delivery of drinking water.

A drought watch is the lowest deceleration level, followed by drought warning and drought emergency which is the highest.