Introduction
The Western US is facing an unprecedented water crisis after a heat wave hit the region. With a combination of low snowpack, extreme heat, and drought, authorities are implementing water use restrictions to avoid a water supply crisis.
Context
The region was already suffering from a lack of snow, which is crucial for water supply during the spring and summer. The heat wave that hit the region in March exacerbated the situation, melting the remaining snow and increasing evaporation.
According to the federal drought monitoring system, more than half of the Western US is experiencing drought conditions. This has led to water use restrictions in many areas, including the city of Denver, which announced a series of limits to reduce water use by 20%.
Water Use Restrictions
Water use restrictions vary from city to city, but include measures such as limiting lawn watering to only two days a week and asking restaurants to serve water only when requested. In some cases, authorities are threatening to shut off water supply to those who do not comply with the restrictions.
The city of Erie, Colorado, for example, ordered residents and businesses to stop irrigating until early April, with the goal of reducing water use by more than 45%.
Impact on Recreation
The water crisis is also affecting recreation in the region. More than half of the 120 ski resorts in the Western US closed, will close early, or never opened this year, according to a Reuters analysis.
Additionally, the hot and dry conditions are increasing the risk of wildfires, leading to fire restrictions in many areas.
Conclusion
The water crisis in the Western US is a clear example of the impacts of global warming and the importance of implementing measures to reduce water use and mitigate the effects of drought.
Source / Reference: https://mailchi.mp/insideclimatenews/limiting-water-use-after-western-heat-wave?e=9c8d2e8aae