The Ripple Effect: Water Shortages Likely in Most Populated Cities
by Tess Pennington Recently by Tess Pennington: Are You Ready Series: 72 Hour Kits
The realization that our water is in fact a finite resource has become all the more clear over the last year where parts of the country have experienced the worst droughts in a century. The changes in global weather patterns and a rapidly growing population have also substantially affected the water supply. In 2010, an article was written that examined the risk of water shortages across the country. The writers of the article looked at an October, 2010 report on water risk by environmental research and sustainability group, Ceres. They also considered a comprehensive July, 2010 report from the National Resources Defense Council which mapped areas at high risk of water shortage conflict. The analysis allowed officials to choose ten cities which are likely to face severe shortages in the relatively near-term future. The cities are: 10. Orlando, Florida 9. Atlanta, Georgia 8. Tuscon, Arizona 7. Las Vegas, Nevada
6. Fort Worth, Texas 5. San Francisco Bay Area, California 4. San Antonio, Texas 3. Phoenix, Arizona 2. Houston, Texas 1. Los Angeles, California However, according to Natural News, these cities should not be the only ones concerned about future water shortages. According to U.S. government estimates, at least 36 states are expected to face water shortages within the next five years. The Ripple Effect In many parts of the country where severe droughts are present, the dry, hot ground is causing major water mains to break and essentially draining the city’s water. In the very near future, cities and towns could place more stringent water restrictions on its inhabitants, but how would these restrictions affect the city as a whole? Recently, in Houston, TX three firefighters were injured in a 4 alarm fire. The article indicates that the fire was difficult to put out partly due to issues with the water supply. This begs the question of how can a city not warn it’s inhabitants of a water shortage? If there is a water shortage in many areas of the states, are we all vulnerable to the water be turned off like in this North Texas town? If we experience water shortages in much of the nation, then cities will have to look for alternate water sources. Water is already a scarce commodity, so there will be competition both locally and statewide for remaining water sources which could make life in these cities nearly unbearable for residents. With emotions running high, a ripple effect could sweep the nation and possibly fuel more aggressive behavior amongst those living in major cities. August 31, 2011 Copyright © 2011 Ready Nutrition
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