Summary
Restaurants in west-central Florida must now offer water to customers only upon request due to a severe drought. The new rule is part of strict water usage limits enforced by the Southwest Florida Water Management District to cope with the drought's impact on local water supplies.
Key Facts
- Florida is experiencing a serious drought, causing low water levels in rivers and reservoirs.
- The Southwest Florida Water Management District has introduced strict water restrictions.
- Restaurants can only serve water to customers if asked.
- Other water use restrictions include limited outdoor irrigation and restricted car washing.
- These rules apply to several counties in west-central Florida until July 1.
- There's a significant regional rainfall deficit of 13.7 inches.
- Public water supplies are extremely low for this time of year, according to officials.
