Why This is Important to Wisconsin: Wisconsin companies with expertise in water systems and technology could provide advice and products.
Mexico is facing a serious water shortage.
After several years of declining rainfall, rising temperatures, and increasing population, northern and central Mexico are struggling with long-term drought, a NASA report says. By late 2023, water shortages reached the critical stage as far south as Mexico City.
NASA cites a February 2024 report by Conagua, Mexico’s national water commission, that says 59.9% of the country is “experiencing moderate to exceptional drought.” About 90% of Mexico City, home to more than 22 million people, is in what’s considered a severe drought.
The NASA report said that according to Mexico News Daily, Conagua has issued restrictions on water use in parts of Mexico City. “Residents in these areas will now only receive water on certain days of the week and for limited periods of time, according to municipal authorities,” the newspaper said.
A CNN article in February quoted one resident of the Tlalpan district who said he’s been living without regular running water for several months. A trickle of water comes on for an hour or two at a time, and then goes dry for days at a time, he said.
The rainy season in Mexico generally doesn’t start until May.
The CNN article says in addition to the effects of climate change, “chaotic urban development and leaky infrastructure” have compounded the water shortage.
The article says about 60% of Mexico City’s water comes from its underground aquifer, but so much water has been pulled from the aquifer that the city is sinking at a frightening rate of around 20 inches a year, according to recent research.
Conagua said it is launching a three-year project to install, develop and improve water infrastructure, including adding new wells and commissioning water treatment plants.
Wisconsin is known for its advances in water systems and technology, and companies in that sector could be helpful partners in improving Mexico’s water crisis.
