The continuing dry and hot weather across the state has worsened drought conditions, as the majority of Massachusetts is now facing a “critical drought.”

State environmental officials are urging residents to conserve water amid the parched conditions, along with taking precautions to prevent fires.

The Bay State’s Northeast and Central regions have been in the Level 3 Critical Drought category, and now the Southeast and Connecticut River Valley regions have been elevated to Level 3.

The Cape Cod region has now been elevated to the Level 2 Significant Drought category, and the Islands and Western regions have remained in the Level 1 Mild Drought category.

“With the majority of the state now experiencing a Level 3 Critical Drought, it is incredibly important that we all practice water conservation and adhere to local requirements and recommendations in order avoid over stressing our water resources,” Massachusetts Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Beth Card said in a statement.

“Efforts to minimize water usage now will help our water systems to rebound more quickly, and ensure that essential public health, safety and environmental needs continue to be met,” Card added.

Those living in a critical drought region should minimize overall water use, and stop all non-essential outdoor watering.

July was exceptionally dry and hot across the region. Rainfall was the lowest across eastern Massachusetts, where Boston experienced the fourth driest July on record.

The state is facing decreasing levels in some reservoirs, dry streambeds, ponding, and significantly lower streamflows. Groundwater is starting to be impacted in many regions.

Fire risk has increased across the state as drought conditions have set in, and wildfires in remote areas are now burning deep into the organic soil layers. Residents are being urged to exercise caution while working with open flames, and to completely drown all campfires out cold.

“The continued dry, hot weather has increased drought-related hazards for much of Massachusetts including the risk for fires,” said Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency Acting Director Dawn Brantley. “We need the public to be especially careful during this time by adhering to local water use restrictions, and exercising caution around any outdoor activities that increase the risk of brush and forest fires such as barbecues, campfires, and safe disposal of smoking materials.”

Farmers are also facing major drought impacts, as they irrigate crops to make up for the lack of rainfall. State officials are encouraging residents to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables and other products at local farm stands and retail stores.