Above-normal rainy season means healthy water levels for bay area

We are relieved when hurricane season passes without damaging Florida.

But tropical storms bring rains that keep our lakes and rivers healthy, even eliminating the need for dreaded water restrictions.

This year, we win two ways.

Tropical storms have avoided the Tampa Bay area, but an exceptionally high summer rainfall, measuring 5 feet in some areas, has replenished groundwater levels and may sustain Florida through the dry season.

It is particularly good luck this year, since the regional water reservoir remains under construction through next July and drinking water resources could have been more strained without a wet rainy season, according to officials at Tampa Bay Water, the area's water manager.