Southwest Florida officials met earlier this week and issued a water shortage order
. But what does that mean? Here’s what you need to know:
- The Tampa Bay area is in a drought after this summer’s four-month rainy season produced just ~26.8 inches of rainfall . That’s the least in 26 years, according to the Southwest Florida Water Management District.
- The Modified Phase 1 Shortage order impacts 16 counties in total, and runs from Tuesday, Nov. 21 to the start of July, meaning certain restrictions for water usage are on their way.
- Both Hillsborough and Pinellas county residents face more restrictions than other counties . Starting Friday, Dec. 1, only one day of outdoor lawn watering is allowed per week.
- The day you are allowed to water your lawn depends on your house number , and the size of your property also has an impact — see how you will be affected .
- If you’re looking for guidance on how to conserve water, we’ve got you covered with some handy tips .