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After several months of rainfall well below average, Miami and other cities in South Florida have entered a state of alert due to water scarcity, a situation that is already worrying authorities due to its impact on the water supply.
The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) warned that it has only received about 50% of the usual rainfall, while drought conditions range from moderate to severe, which could necessitate the imposition of mandatory water use restrictions, the agency reported EFE.
The alert was issued for the counties of Miami-Dade, Collier, Glades, Highlands, Lee, and Monroe, an area where nearly five million people live, due to “persistent dry conditions and increasing concerns about water supply.”
Rainfall deficit and aquifers at critical levels
In the specific case of Miami-Dade, which includes the Miami metropolitan area, the rainfall deficit has reached 3.71 inches (94.2 millimeters) since last November, which represents only half of the average level expected for this stage of the season.
Additionally, the critical situation of the Biscayne aquifer, the main source of fresh water for South Florida, is contributing to the problem, as its levels have dropped to historic lows, even below those recorded during other drought periods in years like 2007, 2009, and 2011.
Call for conservation and possible restrictions
In light of this situation, the SFWMD urged residents to adopt voluntary water-saving measures, although it warned that if conditions do not improve, mandatory restrictions may be implemented.
"If voluntary conservation efforts are not enough, the SFWMD could declare a water shortage and impose mandatory restrictions to protect the public supply," the agency stated.
Authorities warn that, without "significant" rainfall, a further decrease in groundwater and surface water levels is expected for the remainder of the dry season, which typically lasts from winter until the end of spring.
Recommendations to the population
Among the main recommendations issued by the SFWMD are:
Review and optimize the irrigation systems
Water only during the hours permitted by local authorities
Repair water leaks
Avoid washing streets and sidewalks with drinking water
Use plants that require less water consumption
The alert highlights the vulnerability of South Florida to prolonged periods of drought and the need for stricter water resource management in the coming months.
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