Mexico City Faces Impending Water Crisis as ‘Day Zero’ Approaches
Mexico City, one of the world’s most populated cities, is on the brink of a water crisis. With nearly 22 million residents, the sprawling city has been grappling with diminishing water supplies for months. According to the Water Basin Organization of the Valley of Mexico, officials fear that the city could reach “day zero” on June 26, when the Cutzamala System will no longer be able to provide enough water for its residents. This water shortage is expected to last until September.
The scarcity of water has already taken a toll on the locals. Many households have been going without running water for days or even weeks. Enrique Acevedo, a CBS News contributor, highlighted the severity of the situation, stating, “There’s been water scarcity, water management, in the city that we haven’t seen in at least a decade.” To cope with the shortage, gyms and public parks have had to limit the number of guests using their facilities, as people were taking advantage of their memberships to access water.
Residents have also implemented various measures to conserve water. Juan Ortega, a local resident, mentioned that cars are no longer washed, and watering of gardens and grass has been restricted to prevent wastage. Water from washing machines is being reused for watering plants. These efforts reflect the urgency and seriousness of the situation.
Local businesses are also feeling the impact of the water crisis. Arturo Gracia, who runs a coffee shop in the area, revealed that his business has had to pay for a water truck to supply water for toilets and other essential needs. Gracia expressed concern that this issue is not limited to his neighborhood but is affecting several areas across the city.
The water crisis has been exacerbated by high temperatures in Mexico City. Last week, temperatures reached nearly 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and this week they are expected to climb to almost 90 degrees Fahrenheit with minimal cloud coverage. Rafael Carmona, director of Mexico City’s water system SACMEX, described the situation as “unprecedented.” He attributed the low water storage in local dams to decreased rainfall over the past four to five years.
The drought conditions are not unique to Mexico City; most of the country is experiencing some form of drought. In October, 75% of Mexico was facing drought, with many areas classified as experiencing “extreme” and “exceptional” levels, according to the country’s drought monitor. The rainy season typically begins around May, but the lack of rainfall has further strained water supplies.
Apart from the drought, poor water management has also contributed significantly to the crisis. Underground leaks account for up to 40% of wasted water in the city, according to Acevedo. Residential leaks have also been reported. SACMEX acknowledged these leaks and stated that they were working to address them.
While some believe that “day zero” can be avoided this year through increased water supply, others warn that it may be a problem in the years to come. Mexico’s President Andrés Manuel López Obrador expressed confidence in the government’s ability to prevent a water crisis this year. However, Acevedo cautioned that although a specific “day zero” may not be imminent, the current situation is still dire.
The impending water crisis in Mexico City serves as a stark reminder of the importance of sustainable water management and conservation efforts. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns and exacerbate drought conditions, cities worldwide must prioritize water security to ensure the well-being of their residents.
