Survivalists Struggle with Dehydration in Everglades Challenge

Naked and Afraid contestants face life-threatening water shortage in drought-stricken Florida wetlands

Mar. 22, 2026 at 8:00pm

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In the latest episode of the survival reality show Naked and Afraid, two contestants are fighting to endure 21 days in the drought-stricken Everglades with no access to potable water, putting them at serious risk of an early exit from the challenge due to severe dehydration.

Why it matters

The Everglades is one of the most unique and fragile ecosystems in the United States, and the region has been grappling with intensifying droughts and water scarcity issues in recent years due to climate change. This episode shines a light on the very real challenges that people and wildlife face in surviving in this environment when water resources become severely limited.

The details

In the episode, the two survivalists must rely on their wilderness skills and resourcefulness to try to find any sources of drinkable water in the parched Everglades landscape. With no freshwater streams, lakes or springs available, they are forced to get creative in their attempts to collect and purify water, putting their health and safety at grave risk.

  • The episode was filmed in March 2026.
  • It is the 6th episode of the 19th season of Naked and Afraid.

The players

Naked and Afraid

A reality TV series that follows survivalists as they attempt to survive 21 days in the wilderness with no food, water or clothing.

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What they’re saying

“The Everglades is one of the harshest environments we've ever put our contestants in. With no access to clean water, they are truly fighting for their lives out there.”

— Mathew Tompkins, Executive Producer, Naked and Afraid

What’s next

Viewers will have to tune in to see if the two survivalists are able to find a way to stay hydrated and complete the full 21-day challenge in the Everglades.

The takeaway

This episode highlights the very real and dangerous impacts that climate change-driven droughts can have on vulnerable ecosystems and the people and wildlife that depend on them, underscoring the critical need for conservation efforts to protect precious water resources.