Florida Drought Worsens: Extreme Drought Area Doubles, Water Restrictions Expand Statewide

Florida is experiencing a worsening drought, impacting the entire state. The most severe 'extreme' drought category has almost doubled, now affecting 43% of the state as of February 10th. Severe drought conditions cover over 85% of Florida. Many cities are implementing voluntary and mandatory water restrictions, and burn bans are in effect statewide. ## Latest Update The 'extreme' drought category nearly doubled from 24% to 43% of the state between February 3rd and February 10th. While some showers and thunderstorms are expected, particularly in the Panhandle and Central Florida, they are unlikely to significantly alleviate the drought. Long-term forecasts indicate continued below-average rainfall for the next three months. ## Timeline * **February 8, 2026:** Tampa Bay Water declares a Stage 2 drought warning, restricting lawn watering to once per week in Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties, as well as the cities of Tampa, St. Petersburg, and New Port Richey. * **February 10, 2026:** Extreme drought conditions cover 43% of Florida, up from 24% the previous week. Severe drought covers more than 85% of the state, up from nearly 79% the previous week. ## What to Watch * **Mandatory Restrictions:** Monitor local announcements regarding potential escalation of voluntary water restrictions to mandatory measures if conditions worsen. * **Wildfire Risk:** Be aware of increased wildfire risk due to dry conditions and adhere to burn ban regulations. * **Reservoir Levels:** Track the levels of regional water reservoirs, as critical depletion could lead to total bans on outdoor watering.