By Merrilee Gasser, Ther Center Square
In Summary:
New data shows nearly all of Florida is experiencing drought, with the most severe conditions concentrated in the Big Bend region. State and local officials have issued burn bans, water restrictions, and warnings as wildfire risk increases. More than 1,500 fires have already burned over 54,000 acres this year, with conditions expected to remain dry in the near term.
*****
Nearly all of Florida is experiencing drought conditions, with over half the state under extreme or exceptional drought, according to the latest data from the U.S. Drought Monitor.
Much of the Big Bend is under exceptional drought conditions, and even the least affected areas in South Florida are listed as abnormally dry.
The Florida Division of Emergency Management said Wednesday that wildfire risk remains high across the state, especially along the northernmost parts of Florida.
*****
In Orange County:
Central Florida remains under dry, potentially dangerous conditions as drought persists across the region, with recent rainfall offering little relief. Several counties, including Volusia and Osceola, continue to enforce burn bans, while Orange County maintains its year-round prohibition on outdoor burning. Fire officials warn that only sustained, significant rainfall will ease the drought, noting that without it, the region could face its most active wildfire season in nearly a decade.
Related: Orange County burn ban in effect.
Related: Railroad tie fire in Central Florida town shows polluters’ disregard for environment, human life.
Emergency crews have already responded to multiple brush fires, including one in an Orange County neighborhood that surprised residents but was quickly contained. Officials say the dry vegetation is fueling these incidents, making rapid response critical. With wildfire risk elevated, authorities are urging residents to take precautions, including clearing debris, maintaining their yards, and reporting any signs of smoke or fire immediately.
*****
Local officials across Florida have been taking precautions. In St. Johns County, a burn ban is in effect from Monday of this week to Monday of next. The county prohibited outdoor burning, warning about “dangerously dry” conditions and high wildfire risk.
“The ban aligns with statewide emergency actions and follows months of escalating local measures, as St. Johns County experiences one of its driest starts to a year on record,” the county said.
Earlier this month, Florida Forest Service Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson warned residents across the Sunshine State to prepare for an “extremely active” peak wildfire season.
“Florida is experiencing widespread drought conditions like we have not seen in years, and forecasts show the next few months could be extremely active for wildfires,” said Simpson. “We need all Floridians to do their part now by following local burn restrictions, staying alert to weather conditions when burning, and preparing their homes and yards to be wildfire ready. Remember, every fire prevented is one less fire we must respond to, and that will help ensure the safety of our firefighters and our communities.”
There have been over 1,500 wildfires since January, burning more than 54,000 acres in Florida, according to the Florida Forest Service.
In some areas, residents and businesses are having to cut back on water use. The Southwest Florida Water Management District announced water restrictions from April 3 through July 1, including a limit of one day per week for lawn watering. Restaurants are required to only serve water upon request, and aesthetic fountains and water features can only operate for four hours per day.
While residents were permitted to replace lawns and landscape, the Southwest Florida Water Management District encouraged people to wait until summer to get new plants and sod.
The intensity of Florida’s drought has affected the groundwater supplies often used for drinking water and farming, according to data from NASA satellites.
Dry conditions are expected throughout the rest of the week, but some rain relief is possible, the Division of Emergency Management said.
Key Points:
- Over half of Florida is under extreme or exceptional drought conditions
- Wildfire risk remains high, especially in the northern parts of the state
- More than 1,500 wildfires have burned over 54,000 acres since January
- Local governments have implemented burn bans and water-use restrictions
- Officials warn the upcoming months could bring an “extremely active” wildfire season
