How much rain will it take to end the drought?
This year has been particularly dry in Florida. Some are even calling it historic. Typically, Florida receives 55 inches of rainfall per year. The rainfall deficit in 2026 makes the situation concerning, particularly in the area along Interstate 10 between Tallahassee and Jacksonville, where the deficit ranges from 20 to 30 inches. Heavy fall rains have helped central Florida fare better: the deficit there is only 5 inches. Most other regions are suffering from a deficit of between 7 and 12 inches.
A tropical depression could help make up for the water shortage, but this is not expected in the coming months. Better yet, it would be very beneficial for the soil, nature, and freshwater reserves if several months of rain and thunderstorms—which usually begin in late May—were to continue through early September.
West Palm Beach Goes Green
Mayor Keith James has announced that the waterfront along Flagler Drive will be redeveloped to include more green spaces. He is partnering with developer Related Ross, which says it is ready to invest $30 million to turn it into a “people-first” living space. According to James, it will no longer be necessary to cross four lanes of traffic to walk along the Intracoastal.
E.R. Bradley’s Saloon, a restaurant beloved by the local community, is expected to retain its location, after the city had briefly considered taking over the site—a plan that is no longer on the table.
In addition, the city is embracing augmented reality: a free app (https://downtownwpb.com/unlocked) allows users to explore some thirty locations through augmented reality, complete with historical and artistic explanations. Developed by the Downtown Development Authority, the program offers residents the chance to point their phone cameras at monuments, shops, or pieces of urban art, which then come to life with audio explanations and visual animations, such as flying turtles or even Henry Flagler himself!
According to DDA Marketing Director Tiffany Faublas, the project reflects the growth of downtown’s population. With 9,000 residential units currently available compared to just 1,000 in 2007, new residents are expressing curiosity about West Palm Beach’s local history, murals, and architecture. The app allows them to satisfy their interest.
Politics: New DEI and Climate Restrictions
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has just approved several laws taking effect in July 2026 that impose new restrictions on local governments to limit initiatives promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and the fight against climate change.
SB-1134 prohibits local governments (municipal and county) from funding or participating in programs deemed “progressive.” Tallahassee Commissioner Jeremy Matlow, a mayoral candidate, believes this could impact Pride festivals or international food festivals such as the Greek Food Festival. City attorneys are reviewing the matter to determine what might fall under the law’s purview.
The other bill, HB 1217, prohibits any local or state policy aimed at achieving net-zero carbon emissions. This will hinder municipalities’ climate efforts. DeSantis justifies this by citing rising gas and energy prices. Matlow points out: “These aren’t necessarily more expensive to implement—many of them are simply fiscally responsible choices.” The Florida legislature, however, has decided otherwise.
