Pinellas County leaders urge water conservation amid heat and dry weather

The Southwest Florida Water Management District said the Tampa Bay area is in a modified stage one water shortage.

PINELLAS COUNTY – Pinellas County leaders are urging water conservation. Floridians have been experiencing intense heat lately, but local officials said the lack of rain has been hurting the Tampa Bay area.

"When you walk outside, honestly, it feels like you're walking into an oven," said Raven Richardson, who lives in Pinellas County.

Richardson lives in Pinellas County and said the dry weather makes things challenging.

"Ours is sparse. Our grass is hiding right now because of the lack of water," said Richardson.

The Southwest Florida Water Management District said the Tampa Bay area is in a modified stage one water shortage.

Pinellas County Utilities is enforcing watering for customers one day per week.