Watering restrictions increase as drought extends

Much of the Southeast remains in a drought, and the Gulf Coast of Florida has not been spared.

“The district received below average rainfall during its summer rainy season and currently has a 13.7-inch regional rainfall deficit compared to the average 12-month total,” a Southwest Florida Management District news release said. “In addition, water levels in the district’s water resources, such as aquifers, rivers and lakes, are continuing to decline and many are severely abnormal.”

According to the SWFMD, a phase 3 extreme water shortage has been declared. Once-per-week watering restrictions remain in place.

Addresses that end in 0 or 1 can water their lawns on Mondays; 2 or 3 on Tuesdays; 4 or 5 on Wednesdays; 6 or 7 on Thursdays; and 8 or 9 on Fridays.

“Outdoor water use accounts for more than 50% of water consumed by households and residents should know and follow their local watering restrictions as well as conserve water wherever possible,” a SWFMD news release states.

Car washing at home is allowed on the designated lawn watering days listed above, and aesthetic fountains should only be turned on for a maximum of four hours per day.

The hours when watering is permitted has also been narrowed as part of the phase 3 restrictions. According to the release, watering is now allowed from either 12:01 a.m. to 4 a.m. or 8 p.m. to 11:59 p.m.

Low-volume watering, which includes hand watering and micro irrigation is allowed any day before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m.