Will a major US city face a water crisis before 2028?

The Colorado River crisis has eased somewhat following wet winters in 2023-2024, rebuilding Lake Mead and Lake Powell levels. However, long-term structural water deficits in the American West persist, and a single dry winter could rapidly reverse gains. Cities like Phoenix, Las Vegas, and Tucson remain vulnerable despite conservation measures. The definition of "water crisis" here is strict (mandatory rationing or emergency declaration), which raises the bar significantly.

Last updated: Mar 2, 2026

Resolves YES if a US city with population >200,000 officially declares a water emergency, implements mandatory water rationing, or experiences loss of a primary water supply source before January 1, 2028.

Source: City Government Emergency Declarations / US Bureau of Reclamation

Expected resolution: January 15, 2028