Dec 11 , 2023
Not a Drop to Drink: Water Scarcity in America
When we think about water scarcity, what comes to mind? You might think of deserts or drought-stricken regions in the global South, places where access to clean water can mean a miles-long journey.
It may seem like an issue that we’ll never have to deal with, but in reality, it’s much closer to home than many of us realize. In the United States, water scarcity is a growing concern: As of November 2023, at least 31% of the U.S. and Puerto Rico are still grappling with severe to exceptional drought conditions. Let's explore what water scarcity in America looks like, and how we can combat it together.
Water Scarcity in America
How did we get to this point? More frequent, and more severe, drought conditions across the U.S. are partially to blame. Parts of the country are experiencing hotter, drier climates with significantly less rainfall. The summer of 2023 was particularly harsh, with the Midwest and Southeast facing intense droughts, and these conditions persisted through the fall.
Weather can cause water scarcity issues, but that’s not the only factor at play. Our water infrastructure desperately needs an upgrade. Unfortunately, billions of gallons of water are lost annually because of aging, crumbling systems. Because many water infrastructure systems are so delicate, there are many factors that can push them over the edge. Take the crisis in Jackson, Mississippi, where floodwaters overwhelmed the city's outdated water infrastructure, leading to severe water shortages and quality issues. But even when we update these systems, access may remain a challenge: Nearly 2.2 million Americans don’t have regular access to indoor plumbing.
But what about groundwater? This vital source of drinking water is under threat, too. Our overuse of these resources is draining these reserves faster than they can be replenished, as with the Ogallala Aquifer. And pollution is still a major obstacle to getting clean water for all. Despite sophisticated distribution systems, man-made causes often make scarcity worse. The water crisis in Flint, Michigan, caused by a switch in water sources, is a stark reminder of how quickly things can go wrong.
What Can You Do?
Although water scarcity might seem scary, there are many simple things you can do to help. First, conserving water in our daily lives is essential. Even slight adjustments in your water usage can add up to significant savings in both water and money. Alongside conservation, stay aware of what’s going on with your local watershed, and if you’re currently under a drought or not. Knowledge is power, and by understanding your local conditions, you can help keep water scarcity in your area from worsening. And, of course, for the water you use, ensure that it's filtered and safe. Using a King Water Filtration system in your home or business not only guarantees you access to clean water, but also helps conserve this invaluable resource.
Water scarcity in America is a pressing issue, but things can change. By adapting to environmental changes, conserving water and listening to experts, we can tackle this challenge and win. Each of us plays a role in safeguarding our water resources. With King Water Filtration, you have a partner committed to ensuring every drop of water you use is pure and sustainable. By taking these steps, we can each contribute to a more sustainable and water-secure future.
To protect you and your family’s water, there’s no better filtration system on the market than King Water. Whether for a city or well system, our filters eliminate contaminants ranging from turbidity and chlorine to heavy metals and PFAS. Our systems require zero maintenance and are backed with up to a 20-year warranty and a 30-day money back guarantee, making them an easy choice to complement the other actions listed above. To get started, fill out our contact form or call us at 1-855-957-2166, and we’ll set up your free consultation. You can also purchase King Water Filtration systems through The Home Depot.
