South Florida is accustomed to periodic dry spells, common between the months of November and April, but the 2025 dry season has hit south Florida hard as the 13th driest year to date over the past 131 years.
Most of the cypress domes within the park have dried up, with the remaining water pooling into the center of the dome, also known as the “Gator Hole”. Airboat trails within the park, usually filled with water, are now hiking trails where marl soil and dried periphyton sit above exposed limestone.
These extreme conditions have led to burn bans in 21 counties throughout the state of Florida. Here in Miami Dade, we have experienced two brush fires, affecting travel to and from the Florida Keys. The first fire started in March, burning around 27,000 acres. The second fire began less than two months later, burning around 400 acres. Although the fire was smaller, the close proximity to residential areas led to increased concern.
The second brush fire of the year burning around 400 acres near card sound road May 9th, 2025
Although the drought has had a negative impact throughout the state, our wet season is right around the corner, ready to save the parched landscape. It might be safe to say today marked the beginning of our wet season here in south Florida, with the National Weather Service prompting Flood Watch throughout Miami Dade County, with 3-8 inches of rain expected to fall throughout the day!
To say I’m excited is an understatement. The Everglades, in these conditions, just doesn’t feel like the Everglades. It’s an interesting feeling when you walk into the middle of Taylor Slough, a vital source of freshwater for the Florida Bay, only to find mud cracking beneath your feet. I might change my mind once the mosquitos come back, but the Everglades could use a shower or two.
Steven Parnelle, FNPA Marketing and Community Engagement CoordinatorÂ
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A screenshot from www.drought.gov showing the current drought conditions in south Florida. Everglades National Park is under D2- Severe Drought, with Big Cypress under D3- Extreme Drought conditions
A dried-out cypress dome near the Royal Palm area of Everglades National Park. The remaining water is found in the center of the dome, also known as the “Gator Hole”, as seen in this picture
Strolling through a dried airboat trail that passes through Taylor Slough
