Florida is facing its most intense drought in 15 years. Here’s how it got so bad and how long it will last.– www.livescience.com

Florida is experiencing its most intense drought in 15 years, with more than 70% of the Sunshine State facing what the U.S. Drought Monitor calls “extreme” to “exceptional” drought conditions.

Northern Florida is suffering the driest conditions in the state, and recent rainfall has brought almost no relief, according to the latest drought data. Forecasts show no rain and high temperatures over the next week, so the situation will likely get worse before it gets better, experts told Live Science.

“Dry conditions have been building throughout the winter,” Esther Mullens, an assistant professor of geography at the University of Florida, told Live Science in an email. “Three months ago, 98% of the state was in unusually dry conditions, however only 4% were in severe to exceptional drought. As of currently, this number has risen to over 71% in severe to exceptional drought.”