Florida is experiencing one of the worst droughts in recent history, with about 99% of the state in drought and 80% experiencing “extreme drought,” according to NASA.
What happened?
Although Florida is known for its wet weather conditions, it is definitely feeling the effects of a warming planet. With parts of the state receiving less than 50% of average rainfall, the city of St. Petersburg is experiencing its driest year on record, according to the National Weather Service.
As the state feels the effects of the drought, many water districts have implemented temporary restrictions on water-intensive activities such as washing cars and watering lawns.
The restrictions are in place as NASA data confirms that Florida’s groundwater resources are affected by the drought, which is concerning because millions of people rely on the water to grow food and drink.
The risk of wildfires is particularly heightened amid the “extreme drought” conditions being felt across the vast majority of the state. Severe wildfires are raging in Florida as unusually dry conditions create more fuel for flames to spread quickly.
The U.S. Drought Monitor is a convenient resource for people to learn about drought conditions in a specific state, county, or region of the United States. As of April 16, more than 20% of the state was experiencing “abnormal drought,” the most severe category of rapidly depleting groundwater resources, according to the Drought Monitor.
What to do next?
Although drought conditions have become more severe across the state, and Florida’s 2000-01 drought in particular was longer, more severe, and more extensive, these conditions remain concerning.
Fortunately for the Sunshine State, heavy rains this week are expected to reduce some drought conditions and the risk of wildfires. But as Earth’s average daily temperatures continue to gradually rise, causing evaporation to increase and warmer air to retain more moisture, the trend toward more severe and longer-lasting droughts will continue.
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