Drought

While other areas in Florida stayed steady in their previous week's drought categories, North Florida and the Panhandle continue to expand and worsen the drought.

The region hasn't experienced such dry conditions for decades. Restrictions are in place to further limit outdoor watering.

Aquifers, rivers, and groundwater levels continue to decline. Southwest Florida will impose strict water shortage restrictions until July 1.

Outdoor watering is estimated to be half of all the water used by residents. The new restrictions limit irrigation to one day a week - and only at night. It takes effect April 3.

According to the latest drought monitor the entire state is dealing with drought conditions that range from abnormally dry to exceptional - the worst type of drought.

The ongoing drought isn't getting any better. Tampa Bay Water is issuing what it calls a "Stage 3 Extreme Regional Supply Shortage."

Highs will flirt with 90 degrees in some areas of Florida as a high-pressure system brings warm, humid air streaming from the south.

All of Florida is officially under a drought, and the worst drought categories were steady this week.

Cold temperatures for two nights to start the week, but the coldest night will be Monday night into Tuesday. Strong winds and low humidity levels will increase the wildfire risk across Florida as the extreme drought worsens.

Although a cold front swept through, it was not nearly enough to be brief. Severe and extreme drought worsens.

With the elimination of property taxes still on tap in Tallahassee, a study shows billions of dollars in potential losses, with some counties standing to lose more than others.

SWFWMD is expected to go into Phase 2 restrictions, reducing lawn watering to once a week for properties of less than 1 acre.