I've noticed that water levels in lakes, canals and rivers seem to rise or fall too quickly in some cases, or not soon enough in other cases. What causes the variations I see?
A:
Water levels in most parts of south Florida are determined largely by rainfall, especially the smaller community lakes and canals you are likely to see in your neighborhood. These are most often managed and maintained by either Home Owner Associations, developments, water control districts or local governments such as counties or cities.
Each of these local and secondary systems is connected to the other, and most are connected to the larger, regional system managed by the SFWMD. Many of our gates and other water control structures open from the bottom, so even if that gate is open, it may not look as though much is happening!
Check out "Know the Flow" - a brochure describing how local/neighborhood, secondary and regional water management systems work, and offering residents tips for checking/maintaining their neighborhood drainage system.
When rainfall has been either unusually high or low, these local water managers and our agency work together: to either make room for heavy rainfall to try to prevent severe flooding; or to maintain minimum levels to prevent saltwater intrusion and protect groundwater and surface water storage.
South Florida Has Two Seasons
In preparation for the summer rainy season and Hurricane Season, many parts of the regional water management system (also known as the Central and Southern Florida Flood Control Project) are purposefully lowered -- to create additional room to safely store stormwater and provide flood protection.
During the drier winter and early spring months, water levels are likely to naturally lower. To maintain navigation and protect water supplies, minimum levels must be maintained in major waterways. Water levels are allowed to rise naturally during the dry season (November - April) when sustained heavy rainfall and flooding is much less likely.
Q:
How can I learn about water levels in major waterways, or if water structures are open or closed?
A:
The South Florida Water Management District web site includes a Real Time Data page, which provides real-time water level information, as well as information about the status of water control structures such as coastal locks and gates.
NOTE: Most canals and water control structures have names such as C-58, or G-120. The map below can help you determine the name of the structure you are interested in.
Northern Everglades
