Today, the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) rescinded the Water Shortage Warning issued on Feb. 5, 2026 for Miami-Dade and Monroe counties. Recent rainfall in that area coupled with conservation efforts by water users and utilities helped the Biscayne aquifer rebound to a safe level.
Read the rescission of the Water Shortage Warning SFWMD 2026-038.
In Miami-Dade and Monroe counties, recent storms during the month of March produced 3 to 6 inches of rain, which significantly helped to recharge the Biscayne aquifer and improve local conditions. The Biscayne aquifer supplies most of the drinking water for both counties.
Even though the warning has been lifted in Miami-Dade and Monroe counties, the SFWMD continues to encourage residents, visitors, and businesses to conserve water and limit irrigation as South Florida is still in the dry season. Residents can use these simple tips to save water both inside and outside their home:
- All landscape irrigation should comply with the allowed days and times established in your local government’s year-round landscape irrigation ordinance. Visit Lawn Watering Restrictions to learn more.
- Check irrigation timers to ensure settings are correct and rain sensors are working properly. Check irrigation systems to ensure they are working properly and test and repair broken pipes and damaged sprinkler heads.
- Fix leaks. Finding and fixing water leaks conserves water, saves money and protects your home from damage.
- Landscape the Florida-Friendly Way by planting low maintenance plants using environmentally sustainable practices.
- Read more Simple Steps to Save Water.
SFWMD staff will continue to monitor water usage and water levels and will keep the public informed if conditions worsen. Water supply utilities with alternative water supply sources should continue to use these sources to the maximum extent practicable.
Conserving water year-round is an integral part of managing and protecting South Florida’s water supplies today and for future generations. The SFWMD proactively develops long-term water supply plans to monitor, evaluate and identify water sources and projects to meet the future water needs throughout its 16-county region.
The voluntary Water Shortage Warnings issued by the SFWMD on Feb. 5, 2026, for Collier, Glades, Highlands and Lee counties are still in effect and more information can be found by visiting SFWMD.gov/WaterShortage.