Orlando Florida. – The US Drought Monitor has much of central Florida counties in moderate to severe drought due to low rainfall activity in March.
Last month, 0.33 inches of rain was recorded in Orlando, while the average for the date is 3.03 inches, according to National Weather Service data.
On the Florida peninsula, continued dry weather has stressed crops and increased the danger of wildfires.
Short-term severe drought increased over a wide swath of the Florida peninsula, excluding the immediate Miami area, and extreme drought developed in parts of southwest Florida where the greater danger of fire.
Osceola, Orange, Volusia, Brevard, and Seminole counties have areas with moderate to severe drought. While all towns in Polk and Lake counties are experiencing severe drought.
What do the dryness levels mean?
Drought is ranked from 0 to 5 (D0-D05) for its effects. Drought levels affecting central Florida are below D1 (moderate) and D2 (severe) levels.
Under D1, some pastures or crops have been damaged by lack of water, reservoirs or wells are low, and conditions are developing that could lead to water shortage.
On the other hand, D2 indicates that there is a possibility of crop or pasture loss, water scarcity is common, and water restrictions are imposed.
How can I help during the drought?
The Drought Monitor points out that under D1, voluntary restrictions on water use are required.