(Salt Lake City, UT) — Governor Spencer Cox has declared a State of Emergency in 17 Utah counties due to worsening drought conditions. The move follows a recommendation from the state’s Drought Response Committee, as 42-percent of the state remains under severe drought. A dry winter and low snowpack, particularly in southern Utah, have fueled concerns. Officials warn the dry conditions also heighten wildfire risk and urge residents to conserve water and practice fire safety. Highly-populated areas in the declaration include Washington, Tooele, and Carbon Counties.