The Ongoing Drought Crisis in California

Water is a critical resource for all, and the threat of a drought putting our water supply at risk in California is a serious issue that cannot be ignored. The state is currently facing its third consecutive year of a severe drought, with the Sacramento region enduring an unusually dry winter and record-breaking stretches without rain. According to the Department of Water Resources, peak rainfall in the region typically occurs from December to February during the typical late November to mid-April rainy season.

With parts of the state experiencing increasing dryness, water availability is expected to decline further. The ongoing 2014 drought is considered the most severe and perilous drought in California's history.

Understanding the concept of a drought involves recognizing different terms and classifications to distinguish between types. A drought is an extended period of abnormally dry weather that can lead to environmental or economic issues. Prolonged droughts can have a detrimental impact on climate, causing water shortages, agricultural challenges, and health concerns (livescience).

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There are four main categories of drought: meteorological, hydrological, agricultural, and socioeconomic. The first three categories focus on the physical aspects of drought, while the fourth considers supply and demand (Types of Drought). During a drought event, the economy, environment, and society are among the most affected factors.

The United States has experienced droughts in the past, but 2014 is considered the most severe. California, known for its Mediterranean climate, has frequently faced droughts. Since the 1900s, there have been prolonged droughts approximately every decade. From 1980 to present, there have been a total of 16 drought events in the U.

S., costing $210 billion and leading to numerous deaths (LiveScience: CBS Sacramento). Studies indicate that in 2014, nearly 91 percent of California was experiencing severe to exceptional drought conditions, with more than seventeen communities expected to exhaust their water supply by mid-May. This current drought is surpassing previous records for dryness compared to the worst one in 1850 (Global Risk Insights).

During the 1920s and 1930s, there was a significant dry period known as the dustbowl drought, which had lasting impacts on water supply. Three key droughts of the twentieth century stood out in terms of water supply – those of 1928–35, 1976–77, and 1987–91. The drought of 1977 was a wake-up call for unprepared water agencies facing major supply cutbacks. The 1987–92 drought lasted six years and prompted emergency measures such as a ban on lawn watering and the installation of a temporary desalination plant and pipeline by the city. (Department of Water Resources)

The impacts of the drought in California are not limited to individuals, as the commercial agricultural system is also feeling the effects. Insufficient water means plants lack necessary nutrients, leading to slower growth and potential food shortages. The imbalance in supply and demand in the market will result in higher prices for produce. These issues are exacerbating global food security problems during the ongoing drought. (Global Risk Insights)

The problem of hunger and famine is a major concern, with our agriculture system being vital in ensuring food availability in grocery stores. Lack of water can impede the growth of crops and restrict the supply of grass and grains for animals. In times of severe drought, food sources are devastated, resulting in hunger and possible famine if conditions persist.

Access to clean and reliable water sources is essential for public health, especially during drought events that can impact different areas in various ways (CDC). It is important to ensure that water is readily available for healthcare needs in order to promote a healthy lifestyle. While saving water is crucial, proper hand washing should not be neglected as it helps prevent the spread of germs (LiveScience). Even during a drought, maintaining good hand hygiene remains a priority. Droughts can lead to a lack of clean water for drinking, sanitation, and personal hygiene, increasing the risk of potentially deadly diseases. Furthermore, dehydration and other health issues may arise when there is a scarcity of water since the human body can only function for a limited time without it.

Even with obstacles such as droughts putting their crops at risk, farmers in the agricultural industry continue to work hard. They frequently use their own funds to safeguard their crops and jeopardize their financial well-being. Having access to water is essential for nurturing their crops, prompting some farmers to invest in specialized irrigation systems or drilling wells for a consistent water source.

The absence of water not only puts the surrounding environment at risk, but also increases the likelihood of uncontrollable wildfires, resulting in injuries, deaths, and significant destruction. These adverse effects can impact both the environment and workers in the wood and timber sectors.

Climate change and drought are causing water reservoirs, lakes, and dams to rapidly shrink, putting them at risk. This decrease in water levels not only threatens water quality but also increases the likelihood of harmful contaminants such as heavy metals, industrial chemicals, pesticides, and sediments. Folsom Lake serves as a notable example of this issue; typically holding nearly 1 million acre feet of water, it is currently at just 33 percent of its average capacity due to the ongoing drought. The lake's exceptionally low levels have become a symbol of the drought, prompting water agencies statewide to implement necessary cutbacks in response to historic lows in reservoir levels.

The same challenges faced by commercial agricultural farmers also affect businessmen in the aquatic industry. Workers in the boating or fishing industry may struggle to sell their goods if lakes or other water resources dry up or experience abnormal water levels. Hydroelectric power companies, which depend on running water for energy production, may face increased costs that are passed on to customers. Additionally, workers on ships or sail boats may encounter obstacles navigating through streams, rivers, and canals with low water levels, leading to expensive transportation costs for businesses moving goods and materials.

During a drought, officials may implement water restriction measures to ensure there is enough water for homes, businesses, and farms. Governor Jerry Brown has urged the Sacramento City Council and all Californians to approve a 20 percent reduction in water use to prevent depletion of water resources during the summer (SF gate). The specific procedures for water restrictions can vary depending on location, potentially including restrictions on odd or even days of the week, at night, or on weekends. These restrictions may involve limiting usage for certain hours or days, or even completely prohibiting water use. It is important to contact your local water utility for precise information regarding the water restrictions in your area (How to Survive a Drought).

The future is filled with unknowns and new findings for the environment and humanity. As the world's population grows, the need for water remains high in dry and wet areas alike. The growing population not only raises worries about future water usage but also highlights the effects of climate change (LiveScience). With temperatures on the rise, there may be more intense droughts ahead. It is crucial to get ready for dry periods with less rainfall and possible environmental outcomes. Thankfully, everyone can contribute to saving water and having a beneficial effect on the environment.

Conserving water and supporting the environment require modifying daily habits. Water wastage is a common issue in various areas like the kitchen, bathroom, laundry, and outdoor activities. For instance, leaving the shower running or brushing teeth with running water can waste at least 2.5 gallons per minute. Running a full load of laundry may use anywhere from 15 to 50 gallons depending on the type of appliance used. Leaks from sinks, faucets, toilets, and bathtubs can result in wasting around 30 gallons per day while outdoor tasks can contribute to approximately 20 gallons of wasted water. Swapping out old appliances for energy-efficient ones that use less water can help conserve this precious resource.

(City of Sacramento: We Are in A Drought)

The drought has negative impacts on both people and the environment in this country and other affected regions. The current California drought is a concerning preview of potential future water shortages, which could significantly affect agricultural production and food safety. Although it is impossible to prevent a drought from occurring, we can take action to prevent water wastage by making more water-efficient choices.