(The Center Square) – 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 most northern parts of Florida.
Local officials across Florida have been taking precautions. In St. Johns County, a burn ban is under 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 limiting lawn watering to one day per week. Restaurants are required to only serve water upon request, and aesthetic fountains and water features can only operate 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 impacted the underground water 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 a potential for some rain relief is possible this weekend, the Division of Emergency Management said.
