A Water Shortage Warning is in effect for Northwest Florida, issued Wednesday by the Governing Board of the Northwest Florida Water Management District. The warning applies to all surface and groundwater sources within the district’s boundaries.
Regional Impact
The Northwest Florida Water Management District serves approximately 1.5 million residents across an 11,305 square mile area. This includes all or part of fourteen counties: Franklin, Gadsden, Jackson, Leon, Liberty, Wakulla, western Jefferson, Bay, Calhoun, Escambia, Gulf, Holmes, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Walton and Washington.
The order encourages all water users to reduce water consumption “to the maximum extent possible.” Specifically, those who irrigate landscaping are advised to water during the evening or early morning hours when evaporation rates are lowest.
Fire Safety and Utility Restrictions
The warning clarifies that these voluntary measures do not impede activities necessary for fire prevention or property protection. Though, the order as well states that these measures do not supersede any mandatory water restrictions already in place for public supply utility customers due to existing capacity issues.
Drought Conditions
The Water Shortage Warning follows a period of drought conditions throughout the district. Streamflow levels are reported as “below-normal to extremely-below-normal,” and groundwater levels are declining. Drought conditions have been ongoing since mid-September, and are expected to persist through April.
The current situation builds on a broader trend of water concerns in the region, as the Suwannee River Water Management District issued a similar advisory for 15 counties just a month prior. Several local counties have also issued temporary burn bans due to the dry conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What area does the Water Shortage Warning cover?
The warning covers approximately 11,305 square miles and includes all or part of Franklin, Gadsden, Jackson, Leon, Liberty, Wakulla, western Jefferson, Bay, Calhoun, Escambia, Gulf, Holmes, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Walton and Washington counties.
What is being asked of water users?
All users are encouraged to reduce water employ to the maximum extent possible. Landscaping irrigation users are encouraged to limit watering to low evaporation periods during the evening and early morning hours.
How long will the warning be in effect?
The order is effective immediately and will remain in effect until canceled by the Governing Board of the Northwest Florida Water Management District.
As conditions evolve, will residents need to prepare for more stringent water conservation measures?
