Tampa, FL – Water conservation measures currently in effect across the Tampa Bay region could remain in place beyond their scheduled expiration as officials continue evaluating drought conditions and water supply levels.
The Southwest Florida Water Management District implemented Modified Phase III water shortage restrictions earlier this year after prolonged dry conditions affected reservoirs, groundwater resources, and regional water supplies.
The restrictions are currently scheduled to expire on July 1st, but water managers and local leaders are reviewing conditions to determine whether an extension may be necessary.
Under the existing rules, residents are limited to watering lawns once per week during designated hours.
The restrictions also apply to certain outdoor water uses, including landscape irrigation, in an effort to reduce overall demand on regional water systems.
Officials said recent rainfall has provided some improvement in parts of west central Florida, but they cautioned that isolated storms have not fully reversed the effects of months of below-average precipitation.
Water managers continue monitoring reservoir storage, groundwater levels, stream flows, and rainfall totals before making a final decision on the future of the restrictions.
The conservation measures impact residents and businesses throughout the Tampa Bay area, including portions of Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando, and surrounding counties. .