The Six States That Are Running Out Of Water

A new study reveals that significant areas of American geography are experiencing water shortages. Much of this area is fed by water from the Colorado River, as well as changing rain and drought patterns and consumption levels that are extremely high compared to what they were two decades ago. Agricultural use is also a significant factor, particularly in Southern California.

There is another challenge. Parts of the U.S. are in permanent drought conditions that may not end, while other parts of the country experience excessive rainfall at certain times of the year. 2025 is an example. There have been floods across most of the central part of the country, as well as tremendous rainfall from hurricanes, particularly in Florida and the western part of North Carolina. 

Dought Rises

Culligan Quence examined data on infrastructure, drought, agricultural use, growing water demand, uneven water distribution, and water depletion. It identified states where the factors are causing a rapid drop in water supply compared to a sharp rise in demand.  Among the effects they examined were limits to business growth, residential use, reductions in water-intensive goods such as food, and degradation of parts of the environment.

The six states on the list were Colorado. The primary problem for the state is the drop in water levels in Lake Powell and Lake Mead. 

California was on the list because parts of the state are in a nearly permanent state of drought, its reliance on the shrinking Colorado River, and a rise in use for agricultural purposes 

Less Snow

Nevada was on the list because of the falling size in snowpacks in its mountains and falling water levies in Lake Mead.

New Mexico was on the list because of low precipitation and rising residential use.

Utah was on the list due to an extreme drought that has lasted for years, as well as a drop in the water levels of Lake Powell.

Arizona was on the list because the surging population matched again falling water resources, particularly around Phoenix.

The researchers admit that a change in rainfall could change the water situation in most of these states. However, due to long-term patterns, that is unlikely.

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