Mexico’s severe drought is hitting the state of Sinaloa hard. Over half of its 11 reservoirs have run dry, with six shutting down operations so far this year. The Guillermo Blake Aguilar reservoir was the latest to close due to extremely low water levels, as reported by the National Water Commission (Conagua) through the Pacific North Basin Organization. This has sparked concerns about the impact on the state’s agriculture, industries, and residents.
Water Shortage Crisis
Sinaloa’s main reservoir is operating at just 6.4% capacity, while others are at 3-5%. Only one remains at a relatively higher 13.5%. These low levels mean the state can’t meet the water demands of its population and industries. The agriculture sector, a significant part of Sinaloa’s economy, is particularly at risk.
The drought isn’t limited to Sinaloa. About 42% of Mexico’s territory is experiencing extreme drought conditions. This puts other states at risk of facing similar water shortages. Without a solid federal strategy to combat the drought, local authorities are scrambling to respond.
Potential Solutions
Experts have suggested some measures to mitigate the crisis. These include:
- Changing irrigation techniques in agriculture
- Conserving water in livestock farming and industry
- Raising public awareness about responsible water use
However, the situation remains dire. A heatwave is expected to delay the start of the rainy season, which normally begins in early May. This would further reduce water levels in the reservoirs, leading to more supply cuts. Authorities are urging the public to use water responsibly, but a comprehensive plan to address the drought is still lacking.
The current situation highlights the need for effective water management strategies. As the drought continues, the risk of more reservoirs shutting down grows, threatening the livelihoods of people across Mexico.