BOCA RATON, FL (BocaNewsNow.com) (Copyright © 2026 MetroDesk Media, LLC) — Severe drought conditions remain across South Florida, with Palm Beach County now identified as being at severe risk for wildfires. According to the latest Drought Information Statement from the National Weather Service in Miami, below-average rainfall throughout early February is causing significant concern that fires and other issues in Palm Beach County are imminent.
The numbers tell the story. Since November 1st, Palm Beach International Airport has received only 15% of its normal rainfall, recording a 9.94-inch deficit. This dry spell has left soil moisture levels in the bottom 1st to 5th percentile. Experts say that creates a “tinderbox” condition. Lake Okeechobee’s water level has dropped to 12.63 feet, nearly two feet below its seasonal average of 14.59 feet.
Fire officials remain on high alert. A burn ban remains in Palm Beach County. An “Extreme Risk” of fire has been identified for the southern Everglades, while a “Very High Risk” covers the rest of the interior. Burn bans are also in effect in Collier, Glades, and Hendry Counties.
The Climate Prediction Center forecasts that the drought will likely persist through the spring of 2026, with a high probability of above-normal temperatures and continued below-normal rainfall through April. There is no significant rain in the forecast as of Tuesday morning.
