South Florida Water Management District officials declared a water shortage on Feb. 5 throughout South Florida, including Lee and Collier counties. The warnings continue as drought worsens, sparking wildfires in Big Cypress National Preserve and shortages throughout South Florida.
SFWMD issued the water shortage warning for Collier, Glades, Highlands, Lee, Miami-Dade and Monroe counties.
As of late February, Naples and Collier County are experiencing severe to extreme drought conditions, marked by significant rainfall deficits from a dry 2025 and an intense, ongoing dry season. The area faces high wildfire risks, leading to active water restrictions and burn bans…