PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — Drought is still raging in parts of Western Pennsylvania, causing falling water levels in areas where people enjoy boating, fishing or swimming.

The Pittsburgh District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said conditions were not life-threatening, but people on the water should be cautious.

“We are experiencing low water throughout our entire district in Pittsburgh. That affects the Allegheny River, the Mon River, the Youghiogheny River and even into Ohio where we have the Shenango River and the Beaver River,” said Megan Gottlieb, senior water resources engineer for the Pittsburgh District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Gottlieb said authorities have identified low water levels and small, uncontrolled flows in the rivers, so the reservoirs must make up for the difference.

“These reservoirs are operating to maintain certain levels in the river. So they’re not lower than they should be. It’s just that the reservoirs are so full that we didn’t anticipate having to raise that much before Labor Day. And that’s where these low lake levels are coming from, because we haven’t had that much rain. We don’t have a lot of runoff. And so we’re essentially having to rely on these reservoirs to increase the flow and meet the demand downstream,” she said.

Areas south of Allegheny County, including Westmoreland and Washington counties, are experiencing drought. Gottlieb said the impacts on recreation can be seen at Youghiogheny River Lake.

“Because the boat ramps are not in the water or people may not have access to other recreational facilities,” she said.

According to Gottlieb, authorities do not believe the situation is alarming, but people should be more cautious if there are new obstacles in the water.

“If you’re kayaking or boating on a lake or river where the water level appears to be low, be aware of underground obstacles that could get you stuck. Just be alert, look around and talk to the locals. And some people have kayak guides they can refer to that say conditions are unsafe below a certain level,” she said.

In uncontrolled tributaries that are not fed by a reservoir, water levels could be even higher.

“The water levels on these rivers will be extremely low and people should definitely check the river and the shipping channel for blockages,” Gottlieb said.

She said you should check the United States Geological Survey flow meters and always wear a life jacket in or around the water.

“Education and patience are key. Just be patient. We all know we want more water,” Gottlieb said.