Modified Phase II Severe Water Shortage

News Release Date 03-03-2026 Back to News The St. Johns River Water Management District has issued a Modified Phase II Severe Water Shortage for portions of northeast and central Florida due to continued limited rainfall and declining water levels. 💧 Why this matters:Recent rainfall deficits have led to falling groundwater levels and reduced surface water flows. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, our entire region is currently classified as being in extreme drought. 📍 Areas affected include portions of:Baker, Bradford, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Nassau, Putnam, and St. Johns counties within the District, as well as parts of Alachua and Marion counties (with some exclusions based on neighboring water management districts). 🌱 Irrigation Update:With Daylight Saving Time beginning March 8 — when irrigation schedules would typically increase — the District is limiting landscape irrigation to one day per week to reduce demand and help stabilize water resources. 🚫 Wasteful and unnecessary water use is prohibited.✅ All residents, businesses, and property managers are encouraged to voluntarily reduce water use as much as possible and prepare for the potential of additional restrictions if dry conditions persist. The District’s Water Shortage Plan allows for further action if conditions worsen, and officials are closely monitoring rainfall totals, groundwater levels, and river flows. For updates and water conservation tips, visit sjrwmd.com. View PDF of Page