May Rains Ease North Florida Drought Conditions

Above-average rainfall in May improved drought conditions across the Suwannee River Water Management District, though the region remains in water shortage, the District said June 10.

The District received 6.02 inches of rain in May, 73 percent above the historical average of 3.48 inches. It was the wettest May since 2018 and the first month with above-average rainfall since May 2025.

Despite the improvement, the District's 12-month rainfall deficit stands at 17.97 inches, down from 20.22 inches in April. River gages across the District showed mixed conditions, ranging from extremely low to normal flow. Upper Floridan Aquifer levels ended May near the 11th percentile.

The District continues to urge residents, businesses, and visitors to conserve water. The region remains under a Modified Phase II Water Shortage Order.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration projects above-normal temperatures from June through August, with precipitation chances near historical averages. The U.S. Drought Monitor report from June 4 shows the central portion of the District in the Exceptional Drought category, with surrounding areas classified as Extreme Drought.

The District serves 15 north-central Florida counties. The full hydrologic report is available on the District's website under the Science & Data tab.