Southwest Florida looks ahead to rainy season as extreme drought persists

THE WEATHER AUTHORITY, (WINK)—South Florida is entering the rainy season amid extreme drought conditions, following a notably dry winter and spring that left the area short of rainfall.

According to the latest drought monitor released on Thursday, extreme drought conditions continue across Southwest Florida, raising concerns even as the region nears the start of its traditional wet season.

“There has been no change as far as drought conditions go. We saw some measurable rain, but not enough to make a dent in the deficit that we are in,” says Weather Authority Meteorologist Lauren Kreidler. 

Weather Authority meteorologists say La Niña played a major role in the prolonged dryness. During the winter and spring months, the jet stream remained positioned well north of Southwest Florida, preventing most cold fronts from delivering meaningful rainfall to the region.

Florida’s rainy season officially begins May 15 and lasts through October 15. During this period, higher moisture levels and intense daytime heating typically fuel frequent afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms.

Despite the seasonal transition, long-range forecasts suggest South Florida may continue to see warmer-than-average temperatures and below-normal rainfall for much of the upcoming wet season.

Officials and residents alike will be watching closely to see whether the 2026 rainy season can deliver enough rainfall to ease the region’s growing water deficit.