The dry weather is really starting to take a toll as the drought situation continues to worsen across Southwest Florida.
The latest drought monitor released Thursday shows the severe drought (in orange) now expanding into Lee and Charlotte County while extreme drought conditions (in red) advance across portions of Collier and Hendry County.
Places like Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Buckingham, Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte are now included in a severe drought. Since Jan. 1, most neighborhoods are running a rainfall deficit between 4 to 6 inches.
Unfortunately, we don't have much help on the way over the next few days, so the fire danger will continue to be a concern.
Our next opportunity for rain is early next week, but it won't be enough to put a dent in our rain deficit.
The rain potential through next week will likely stay below a half inch, though every little bit helps.
We're still about a month or so from the start of the rainy season, which historically begins anytime from mid-May to early June.
Count on the Gulf Coast Storm Team to keep you updated as we track the worsening drought and high fire danger.
Follow the Gulf Coast Storm Team on social media
- Chief Meteorologist Allyson Rae on Facebook and X
- Meteorologist Jim Dickey on Facebook and X
- Meteorologist Jason Dunning on Facebook and X
- Meteorologist Rob Duns on Facebook and X
- Meteorologist Jesslyn Ferentz on Facebook and X
- Meteorologist Lauren Hope on Facebook and X
- Meteorologist Raphael Tavernier on Facebook and X
Watch your Gulf Coast Weather forecasts on TV or online
- Here's where to find our latest video forecast
- You can also watch our newscasts live or on-demand here
DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest breaking news and weather alerts.