Water shortage warning lifted for Lee and Collier counties after rainfall boost

The South Florida Water Management District has lifted its water shortage warning for Lee and Collier counties following months of dry conditions.

The warning was issued in February due to declining groundwater levels.

The district said the region has received more than 140% of normal rainfall since May 15, which has raised water levels in the Lower Tamiami Aquifer by about three feet.

That improvement was enough for the district to rescind the warning.

Still, water managers emphasized that conservation remains a priority. They advised residents to continue following local irrigation rules, check for leaks, and avoid wasting water even as conditions improve.

While the warning has been lifted for most of the region, parts of northeast Cape Coral remain under a separate water shortage order. Residents relying on the Mid-Hawthorne Aquifer are still limited to watering once a week.