The situation is the worst in 120 years. Most drinking water comes from wells, which are extremely stressed. Aquifers are at an all-time low. Coastal regions are subject to saltwater intrusion. Crops are impacted since irrigation is not a viable option.
Fire is one of the most serious consequences of drought.
Numerous fires are already burning. Without adequate water, vegetation is dying and swamps are drying up, creating high potential for fire. Arson is on the rise. Normal seasonal thunderstorms might provide some relief, but they cause lightning strikes, resulting in additional fire starts. While fires will recur as a natural phenomenon in Florida, the state has no systematic process in place to deal with a non-traditional disaster such as drought.