One of The World’s Most Populated Cities on the Verge of Water Scarcity
Mexico City faces “day zero” as water supplies diminish
Mexico City, home to nearly 22 million people, is on the brink of a water crisis as its water supplies continue to dwindle. Local officials fear that the “day zero” scenario, where there won’t be enough water for residents, could occur on June 26 and last until September. Many locals are already experiencing water shortages, going for days or even weeks without running water in their homes.
Enrique Acevedo, a CBS News contributor, highlights the severity of the situation, stating that “there’s been water scarcity, water management, in the city that we haven’t seen in at least a decade.” To conserve water, gyms and public parks have started limiting the number of people using their facilities for showers and other water-related activities.
Amid high temperatures and poor water management, crisis intensifies
Last week, Mexico City battled high temperatures, with recorded temperatures reaching nearly 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The forecast for this week shows temperatures expected to reach nearly 90 degrees Fahrenheit with minimal cloud coverage. The combination of high temperatures and poor water management exacerbates the water crisis.
Rafael Carmona, director of the Mexico City Water System (SACMEX), highlights the lack of rain and decreased rainfall over the past few years as significant factors contributing to the crisis. Drought conditions have affected most of Mexico, with areas experiencing the highest levels of “extreme” and “exceptional” drought according to the country’s drought monitor.
Sustainable measures and preventive actions to combat the crisis
In response to the water scarcity, residents have implemented various measures to conserve water. Some of these measures include refraining from washing cars and limiting watering of gardens and lawns to prevent plant death. Additionally, residents have resorted to reusing water from washing machines for watering purposes.
Poor water management, including significant underground and residential leaks, also contributes to the problem. The Mexico City Water System (SACMEX) is working to address reported leaks and stabilize water supply.
Government commitments and the road ahead
Mexico’s President, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, is confident that the government will increase water supply enough to prevent the “day zero” scenario this year. However, researchers suggest that the severity of the crisis may worsen in the coming years if preventive and sustainable measures are not implemented.
The current water scarcity in Mexico City reflects the unprecedented challenges faced by the city due to a combination of natural factors and poor management. Taking immediate action and making long-term sustainable decisions will be crucial to secure the city’s water future.
