A glimmer of hope for DeSoto County's drought; not the case for the rest of SWFL

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA (WINK) — The latest drought monitor is out, and there's finally a small silver lining...at least if you're in DeSoto County.

About one-third of the county has shifted from "extreme" drought down one category to "severe" drought. That might not sound like a dramatic improvement, but context matters here: DeSoto County has been entirely in extreme drought since February 3, longer than any other county in our area. So even a partial step in the right direction is worth noting.

Here's where things stand right now: 65.29% of DeSoto County remains in "extreme" drought, while the northern third has nudged down to "severe" (D2) conditions.

For the rest of Southwest Florida, the picture is less encouraging. The region is still sitting at 100% extreme drought, as a combination of warm temperatures and stubbornly absent rainfall continues to take its toll on the landscape. Relief isn't expected to come quickly with only a 20% rain chance in the 7-day forecast.

Rainy season traditionally doesn't kick in until around mid-May. Your WINK Weather Authority will update you with any changes on the way.