Drought

Suncoast Searchlight reviewed water-restriction complaints and enforcement records across Sarasota County during Southwest Florida's most severe drought in nearly a decade and found municipalities are taking sharply different approaches to enforcement.

The ongoing drought has lowered water levels which has increased concentrations of containments. However, drinking water and overall water supply for firefighting wildfires has had little to no impact.

Why is a region of the U.S. more often known for thunderstorms and humidity in spring seeing so many wildfires? Here's what's happening to drive these conditions.

Florida is experiencing one of its worst droughts in decades, causing widespread wildfires and evacuation orders in large swaths of the state.

The amount of rainfall needed to end the drought around Florida varies from a few inches across Central Florida to nearly 30 inches along the Interstate 10 corridor.

The Southwest Florida Water Management District will hold water in Lake Hancock — protecting Circle B habitat while cutting off downstream flow.

The National Weather Service issued a red flag warning – the highest weather risk for wildfires – for several counties across the greater area. The warning expires at 8 p.m. Tuesday.

Wildfire activity is increasing across Florida as significant drought conditions persist, with more than 100 fires burning nearly 12,000 acres.

A burn ban automatically went into effect for Sarasota County due to local drought conditions and an increased chance of fire hazards.

Parts of Central and North Florida are forecast to reach 90 degrees or more by the end of the week and into the weekend, breaking new records.

The restrictions apply to all residents, even those with private wells. Starting April 17, citations can be issued without warning. A Phase Three Extreme Water Shortage has been issued.

There have been about 1,500 wildfires in the first three months of 2026, and the state is on track to surpass the last two years' records. The busiest part of the fire season is April, May and June.