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NewsFOX 13 Tampa BayAugust 5, 2026Hillsborough

Tampa Bay Water aims to refill regional reservoir to 15 billion gallons by October

Tampa Bay Water has begun replenishing its regional reservoir following recent rainfall, though officials warn the region remains in a significant rainfall deficit. The utility is working to restore river water intake to reduce reliance on groundwater sources that were heavily taxed during the recent drought.

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Why It Matters

Residents in Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties, as well as Tampa and St. Petersburg, rely on this utility for drinking water, and the speed of reservoir recovery affects long-term water security.

Key Facts

  • The regional reservoir currently holds just over 2 billion gallons of water.
  • Tampa Bay Water has set a goal to reach 15 billion gallons in the reservoir by October.
  • The region remains in a severe rainfall deficit despite recent rain.
  • Tampa is approximately three inches behind in expected rainfall.
  • Sarasota County is approximately one foot behind in expected rainfall.
  • During the drought, river systems could not contribute water, forcing increased reliance on groundwater and desalination.
  • Water intake from rivers into the reservoir resumed within the last five days.
  • Officials have not provided a specific timeline for the full recovery of river and groundwater levels.

Who's Mentioned

locationPasco County“Service area”locationPinellas County“Service area”personValerie Mills“FOX 13 Meteorologist”locationTampa“Service area”organizationTampa Bay Water“Regional water utility provider”personChuck Carden“General Manager of Tampa Bay Water”locationHillsborough County“Service area”locationSt. Petersburg“Service area”