Parts of Franklin and Oxford counties are now experiencing severe drought.

According to Thursday’s update from the U.S. Drought Monitor, the area of the state experiencing severe drought has expanded to most of Franklin County and a large part of Oxford County.

The update comes as most of the rest of the state is already seeing moderate drought. The water district in South Berwick has even placed a ban on all outdoor water use.

According to the Portland Press Herald, state officials said other public water systems are preparing to take steps to conserve water as well.

Experts say a lack of rainfall, especially in the spring, has led to the abnormally dry conditions statewide.