Mexico’s water crisis is spiraling out of control, with severe drought affecting the northern regions and beyond. The country’s reservoirs are drying up fast, with 16 of the 40 major dams in the north already below 20% capacity. The situation is critical, with some reservoirs, like Sonora’s Abelardo L. RodrÃguez and Adolfo Ruiz Cortines, at 0% and 1% capacity, respectively.
The National Water Information System (SINA) reports that the 41 reservoirs along the US-Mexico border are, on average, at 47.4% capacity. This is a worrying trend, as it threatens not only daily consumption but also Mexico’s ability to meet its water delivery obligations to the US under the 1944 Water Treaty. Chihuahua’s Las Lajas reservoir is at 7%, while Tamaulipas’ Internacional Falcón reservoir is at 9%. Coahuila’s La Amistad reservoir, a point of contention during the Trump administration, is at 12.7%.
A National Problem, Not Just a Regional One
The drought is not limited to the north; around 59.3% of Mexico is affected, with 292 municipalities lacking access to water. States like Sonora, Sinaloa, Baja California, Baja California Sur, Chihuahua, and Durango are among the hardest hit. As temperatures are expected to soar this summer, the situation is likely to worsen.
The crisis has far-reaching implications for agriculture, industry, and Mexico’s relationship with the US. If the country cannot meet its water delivery obligations, it may strain bilateral relations. Some experts even warn that the drought could lead to a “water war” between the two nations.
Potential Solutions on the Horizon
While there is no magic solution to the crisis, some measures can help mitigate its impact. In Sonora, plans are underway to build three new reservoirs – Sinoquipe, Puerta del Sol, and Las Chivas – with an investment of 7.5 billion pesos. However, environmentalists have raised concerns about the potential impact of these projects on already depleted water basins.
A more promising approach might be to focus on renewable energy sources, which can help reduce the strain on the water system. By diversifying Mexico’s energy mix, the country can decrease its reliance on hydroelectric power and alleviate some of the pressure on its water resources. Still, a comprehensive strategy with a long-term vision and significant investment in infrastructure and social awareness is necessary to address the crisis.
As the water crisis continues to unfold, it’s clear that a business-as-usual approach won’t cut it. Mexico needs to think creatively and act decisively to avoid a catastrophic outcome.