Cape Coral residents are grappling with a persistent water shortage, affecting daily tasks such as cooking, laundry, and bathing. Since May, a water shortage order has been in place, leaving families like the Downeys facing tough choices.
“This used to hit that counter when we moved in, and now I can’t even get a solid, steady stream to hit the other end of the sink,” said Eli Downey, illustrating the declining water pressure.
Heather Downey shared the challenges they face, saying, “We’re at a point where we cannot take a shower and do laundry at the same time.”
The family struggles with a garden they cannot water, trees dying off, and brush they cannot burn. Selling their home is not a viable option either, as potential buyers are concerned about the water situation.
“We did try to sell our house probably six or seven months ago,” said Heather Downey. “They constantly asked about the well and the water situation.”
Lauren Kreidler, a WINK meteorologist, warned of worsening conditions, saying, “We saw less rain over rainy season, which set us up for a dry start to dry season already.”
The dry season, which lasts until mid-May, is expected to exacerbate the situation. “It is expected to, unfortunately, worsen. We’re not going to see improvement until, of course, we get that rainfall,” Kreidler said.
The Downeys fear for the future. “My question is, when all the wells dry up in the unincorporated area, where does the unincorporated occupants go for help?” Eli Downey asked.
The City of Cape Coral continues to enforce water restrictions to protect the Mid-Hawthorn Aquifer, which remains 3.02 feet below the maximum developable limit. Only residents using private wells in the designated area are affected, with lawn irrigation banned and strict rules on water use enforced.
Efforts to alleviate the situation include the Utilities Extension Project, which aims to bring city water and irrigation to more homes by 2027. Residents are encouraged to conserve water to help ensure a sustainable future.
For more information on current water restrictions and conservation tips, visit Cape Coral’s official website and the South Florida Water Management District website.