The Florida Suncoast is entering the heart of summer with a serious drought still gripping much of the region, and the numbers show this is far more than a stretch of hot, dry weather. According to the National Weather Service Tampa Bay, moderate to extreme drought continues across West Central and Southwest Florida, with the drought remaining largely long-term because of low river levels, dry soils and elevated fire danger despite some recent rain.
The worst conditions locally include D3 Extreme Drought in western Sarasota County, western and northern Manatee County, Pinellas County, Hillsborough County, Hardee County, coastal Charlotte County and Lee County. D2 Severe Drought remains in eastern Sarasota County, southern Manatee County, inland Charlotte County and other inland areas.
The Rainfall Shortage Is Significant
One of the clearest signs of the drought is the rainfall deficit dating back to September 1, 2025. The National Weather Service reports that rainfall has been “well below normal” across much of the region, with numerous locations receiving less than 50% of normal rainfall for the period. Several locations are also running in the top five driest on record since September 1.
Here are some of the most striking local numbers from the National Weather Service rainfall table for September 1, 2025 through June 9, 2026:…