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04Sep
August Rainfall Boosts Regional Water Supplies, Long-Term Deficits Remain
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News Release

For Immediate Release

Contact: Malique Rankin
mrankin@tampabaywater.org
(727) 337-5833

CLEARWATER, Fla. (Sept. 4, 2026) – Above-normal rainfall in August helped improve regional water supply conditions, increasing storage in the C.W. Bill Young Regional Reservoir and reducing water demand across the Tampa Bay region. While the recent rainfall is encouraging, long-term rainfall and streamflow deficits remain, and Tampa Bay Water continues to monitor conditions closely. 

August rainfall averaged 9.0 inches across the region, approximately 1.1 inches above normal. The additional rainfall helped replenish portions of the regional water supply system, including the reservoir, which increased from approximately 15% capacity at the end of July to 31% capacity by the end of August. 

"The rainfall we've received over the past month has been beneficial for the region's water supply and began replenishing storage in the reservoir," said Warren Hogg, chief science officer for Tampa Bay Water. "While conditions have improved, recovering from a prolonged drought takes time. Continued water-saving habits will help protect our supplies as we prepare for Florida's next dry season." 

Tampa Bay Water remains in a Stage 3 Regional Supply Shortage and will continue working with member governments and regional partners to monitor supply conditions and ensure reliable drinking water for the region. 

Residents can continue supporting regional water supplies by following local watering restrictions, skipping irrigation after rainfall and making water-efficient choices at home. Small actions today can help preserve water resources and strengthen the region's preparedness for future dry conditions. 

August Water Supply Update:  

  • Tampa Bay Water delivered an average of 183.64 million gallons per day in August, 3.6% (6.94 mgd) lower than August 2025. 
  • The region is experiencing a 12-month average rainfall deficit of 14.1 inches. 
  • August rainfall averaged 9.0 inches, 1.1 inches above normal. 
  • The average streamflow deficit for the past year is 28.0 million gallons per day. 
  • The C.W. Bill Young Regional Reservoir held 4.81 billion gallons at the end of August, about 31% of its 15.5-billion-gallon capacity. 
  • The Tampa Bay Seawater Desalination Plant produced an average of 8.78 million gallons per day in August.