Tallahassee, Fla. – Over half of Florida is now experiencing drought, with dry conditions worsening from the Panhandle to the southern tip, according to new data released this week.
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor and NOAA, 51.8% of the state is now classified in drought status, ranging from Abnormally Dry (D0) to Extreme Drought (D3). Some parts of Central and South Florida have seen precipitation deficits exceeding 6 inches over the last 90 days.
Hardest-hit areas include interior regions near Orlando, Naples, and parts of the Everglades, where rainfall has been significantly below normal since January. Much of the Tampa Bay and Space Coast areas are also listed as moderately to severely dry, with minimal improvement expected in the coming days.
The National Weather Service in Tallahassee noted that while scattered showers are possible, not all areas will receive beneficial rainfall. Residents are urged to conserve water, limit outdoor burning, and monitor updates from local emergency managers.
With limited precipitation expected through at least next week, officials warn conditions could deteriorate further. More drought designations may follow if the dry spell persists into May.
