South Florida drought sets 2-year record

WEST PALM BEACH

South Florida water managers say 2006 and 2007 were the driest consecutive years in the region since record-keeping began in 1932. Scientists say the two-year total is nearly 2 feet less than the typical average rainfall of about 9 feet for the region. Lake Okeechobee, a backup drinking water source for more than 5-million people, remains more than 4 feet below its average level. The South Florida Water Management District recently approved the region's tightest water restrictions, limiting outside watering to once a week from Orlando to the Keys. It was the first time the agency imposed the severe restrictions throughout its entire 16-county territory.

TALLAHASSEE

Bill okays life for 2-time offenders

A legislative panel stood and applauded the father of 9-year-old murder victim Jessica Lunsford on Tuesday before approving a bill he said would have prevented her death. Mark Lunsford spoke on behalf of the measure (HB 85) that would send people 18 or older to prison for life if convicted more than once of molesting a child under 12. "If John Evander Couey would have got life for his second offense, I wouldn't have spent Christmas alone," Lunsford said. Couey, 49, a convicted sex offender, was sentenced to death last year. The bill unanimously cleared the House Budget and Policy Council.

[Last modified January 8, 2008, 22:12:54]