Miami-Dade Urges Water Conservation as Drought Worsens

Possible mandatory restrictions loom as water levels hit historic lows

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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A combination of drought and increased water usage has led to a growing water shortage in Miami-Dade County, prompting officials to call on nearly 3 million residents to voluntarily conserve water as conditions worsen and the possibility of mandatory restrictions looms.

Why it matters

The ongoing drought and low water levels in the Biscayne Aquifer, the main source of drinking water for the region, pose a serious threat to the water supply for millions of residents in Miami-Dade County. Mandatory restrictions could significantly impact daily life and the local economy if the situation does not improve.

The details

The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) has reported that groundwater wells in the area are below 10% of their typical levels for this time of year. Since November, Miami-Dade has received just 4.2 inches of rain, about half of the more than 8 inches typically expected during this period. While neighboring Broward County's water levels are not as low, the outlook remains concerning for Miami-Dade.

  • Since November, Miami-Dade has received just 4.2 inches of rain, about half of the more than 8 inches typically expected during this period.
  • The last time South Florida experienced a drought this severe was in 2011.

The players

South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD)

The regional water management district responsible for overseeing water resources in South Florida, including monitoring water supply and issuing conservation advisories.

Carolina Moran

A spokesperson for the SFWMD who explained the district's tracking of water supply levels in the region.

Dave Warren

A CBS Miami meteorologist who reported on the region's rainfall deficits contributing to the drought conditions.

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What they’re saying

“We have groundwater wells. They are below 10 percent for this time of year for the wells in that part of South Miami.”

— Carolina Moran, SFWMD spokesperson (CBS Miami)

“I don't like it—it made me nervous. Because people in Miami don't pay attention. I thought, let me do what I can do, but it's so little.”

— Aventura resident (CBS Miami)

What’s next

The SFWMD continues to monitor the situation closely and warns that mandatory water restrictions may be implemented if dry conditions persist.

The takeaway

The severe drought and low water levels in Miami-Dade County highlight the region's vulnerability to water scarcity and the need for residents to take proactive steps to conserve this precious resource. Failure to do so could lead to mandatory restrictions that would significantly impact daily life and the local economy.