NewsFox 13 News (WTVT) — Local NewsAugust 5, 2026Hillsborough
Tampa Bay Water begins refilling regional reservoir following drought
Tampa Bay Water has resumed pumping water into the regional reservoir after recent rainfall allowed river levels to recover. The utility aims to reach a 15-billion-gallon capacity by October to reduce reliance on groundwater sources.
Read the full story at Fox 13 News (WTVT) — Local NewsWhy It Matters
The region's drinking water supply depends on balancing groundwater, desalination, and river water, and the current reservoir deficit impacts the long-term sustainability of these resources for Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties.
Key Facts
- Tampa Bay Water has begun refilling the regional reservoir after a period of drought.
- The reservoir currently holds just over 2 billion gallons of water.
- The utility has set a goal to reach 15 billion gallons in the reservoir by October.
- Tampa is currently behind by three inches of rainfall, while Sarasota County is behind by nearly a foot.
- During the drought, river systems were unable to contribute water, forcing an increased reliance on groundwater.
- Tampa Bay Water supplies drinking water to Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties, as well as the cities of Tampa and St. Petersburg.
- The utility utilizes groundwater, a desalination plant, and surface water from the Hillsborough and Alafia river systems.
Who's Mentioned
locationPasco County“Service area”locationPinellas County“Service area”locationSarasota County“Area with rainfall deficit”personValerie Mills“FOX 13 Meteorologist”locationTampa“Service area”organizationTampa Bay Water“Regional water utility provider”personChuck Carden“General Manager of Tampa Bay Water”locationHillsborough County“Service area”locationSt. Petersburg“Service area”