RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has expanded the drought watch advisory to include 38 counties. According to DEQ, a drought watch advisory is intended to help Virginians prepare for a potential drought and includes the following areas as of Friday, Nov. 8: Eastern Shore: Accomack and Northampton counties   Northern Coastal Plain: Caroline, Essex, Gloucester, King George, King William, King and Queen, Lancaster, Mathews, Middlesex, Northumberland, Richmond and Westmoreland counties   Northern Virginia: Arlington, Fairfax, Fauquier, Loudoun and Prince William counties  Shenandoah: Augusta, Clarke, Frederick, Page, Rockingham, Shenandoah and Warren counties  Southeast Virginia: Chesapeake, Isle of Wight, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk and Virginia Beach   York-James: Charles City, Hampton, James City, Newport News, New Kent and York counties   DEQ said the past 30 days have seen below-normal precipitation levels over the entirety of the Commonwealth. Above-average temperatures and scant precipitation have reportedly led to decreases in soil moisture profiles for the eastern and central regions of the state and notable decreases in streamflow in the eastern and northeastern regions. According to DEQ, groundwater levels in most of the Commonwealth remain low and continue to show seasonal and drought-related declines. DEQ said the eight to 14-day weather forecast predicts normal to above-normal temperatures and chances of slightly below-average precipitation. DEQ is working with local governments, public water works and water users in affected areas to ensure that conservation, drought response plans and ordinances are followed. Localities and Virginians that are supplied water from the Potomac River are advised to consult the Metropolitan Washington Water Supply and Drought Awareness Response Plan for specific triggers and actions to be taken. To view the current drought status in Virginia, visit DEQ's website.