Rainy Season at the Florida Springs | What to Expect

While you can visit the Florida springs any time of year and have a wonderful time. When visiting during the rainy season, here are some things to keep in mind.

When is the rainy season?

Rainy season in Florida is from May 15 to October 15, according to the National Weather Service. And according to the Florida Climate Center at Florida State University, hurricane season is from June 1 to November 30. 

Because of this, there is an increase in storm possibilities and an increase in humidity.

Storms are more likely to develop in the afternoon and evening, so it is best to get started on your spring adventure earlier in the day. 

The early bird gets the most adventure time!

How do ‘tannins’ make the water brown?

What causes water to look brown? Or, if you are from Florida, you may say you are paddling through some sweet tea.

Tannins are one of the reasons that water can look more reddish-yellow brown. According to the U.S. Forrest Service, tannins are complex chemical substances derived from phenolic acids, a natural antioxidant found in plants. Tannins are released when vegetation such as roots, tree bark, and leaves break down in the water affecting the color. Again, storms cause more debris like this to fall into the water, and with rising river levels you get more tea and less sparkling blue. Water affected by tannins is not harmful to humans, but I wouldn’t suggest drinking it, and make sure you rinse your clothing.

Why is the spring’s water brown? 

A common question asked by many who visit Florida this time of year and are expecting the clear blue waters they see all over social media.

Technically, it’s not the spring water turning brown but the river water overtaking it. The spring water comes from aquifers underground and remains that beautiful aquamarine color. The springheads feed into the river. When there is an increase in river water levels due to an increased amount of rain, this causes the river water to overpower the spring's flow. The term associated with this is called ‘brownout.’ Larger springheads, like Rainbow Springs or Head Spring at Ichetucknee, will not be as affected by this. But smaller ones like Rum Island or the spring that feeds Rock Springs Run will be more affected. 

Tips

• Always check the weather before going!!! Storms can cause swim areas or watercraft launches to close due to high water levels. Storms can also flood hiking trails. You can call the number for the state park to check, or most will have a notification banner at the top of the webpage. 
• With an increase in humidity and it being warm, bugs are alive and well. It's always good to pack bug spray if you plan on paddling the river or exploring any walking trails. Avon’s Skin So Soft is great for warding off those noseeum bugs.
• And no matter if it is cloudy, always wear sunscreen! We recommend a brand called Stream2Sea that protects your skin and is eco-friendly. Read the blog post to learn more about this product.  
• If you are paddling the rivers attached to the springs, be mindful that storms can cause fallen trees, debris to litter the water, and animals to get displaced, so paddle smart. If you can, safely pick up any trash. If you see an animal in distress, you can call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) at 888-404-3922 or you can text 847411 with the keyword 'FWC' and information about the situation.

No matter what time of year, it is always good to plan your spring visit ahead of time, but especially a good idea during Florida’s rainy season.

Even if the water is a little browner, or the ground might be a little wet on your hike, or while swimming around you begin to feel little droplets on your head, you can still enjoy one of the natural wonders that makes Florida so unique.