Southwest Florida Water Management District Declares Water Shortage in Tampa Bay Area and Southwest Florida

The Southwest Florida Water Management District has declared a water shortage in the Tampa Bay area and portions of southwest Florida due to dry conditions and a significant rainfall deficit. The Modified Phase I Water Shortage order is in effect until July 1, 2024, impacting several counties in the region.

The order prohibits wasteful water use and continues twice-per-week lawn watering restrictions. Beginning December 1, Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties will be limited to once-per-week lawn watering. The district also implemented restrictions based on property size, with properties under two acres only allowed to water before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m.

For more information on water restrictions and to see the status of your county, visit the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s website. Stay tuned for updates on when downpours will start in Tampa Bay this week.