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Tampa, FL - Large portions of the Tampa Bay region have entered severe drought conditions at the start of 2026 following months of below average rainfall.
Updated federal drought data shows much of the Tampa Bay area now classified under severe drought, a designation that reflects prolonged precipitation shortages, declining soil moisture, and increased environmental stress.
The dry conditions span multiple counties across the region and are occurring during what is already a seasonally dry time of year for Florida.
Forestry officials report that the lack of rain, combined with cooler temperatures and recent frost events, has dried out vegetation, increasing the risk of wildfires.
Since the beginning of the year, crews have responded to several brush fires across the region.
Most of the fires were small and quickly contained, but officials say the early activity highlights how vulnerable the landscape has become.
Water managers are also closely monitoring the situation. With rainfall totals remaining well below normal, some utilities have begun relying on stored reservoir water earlier than expected.
Officials emphasize that while short periods of rain may occur, they have not been enough to significantly improve overall drought conditions.
Fire rescue agencies are urging residents to take precautions as dry vegetation can ignite easily.
Activities such as outdoor burning, improper disposal of cigarettes, or sparks from equipment can lead to rapid fire spread under current conditions.
Some counties have already implemented burn restrictions in response.
Meteorologists note that drought conditions may persist unless the region receives sustained rainfall in the coming weeks.
Until then, officials continue to stress water conservation efforts and wildfire prevention as the Tampa Bay area faces a dry and challenging start to the year.