Environment

Alachua County drought persists despite rain; burn ban extended through May 8

Despite recent showers, emergency management officials and the Florida Forest Service say the ground was not adequately saturated to ease wildfire danger in Alachua County, which faces a rainfall deficit of nearly 20 inches. The county has extended its burn ban through May 8, and dry conditions are expected to continue until at least July. The prolonged drought is also threatening pollinators by reducing flowering plants and water sources, and has caused significant disruption to freshwater fishing statewide.

Sources: WCJB TV20 · Alachua County · WUFT News