Water
Why this is rated elevated
About a fifth of the contiguous US is in moderate drought or worse, and several utilities have enacted conservation stages.
Elevated: Some indicators are outside normal ranges or a known risk is developing. Core functions are unaffected. Methodology
What is this?
This tracks droughts and whether tap water is safe.
How it's doing: Still working, but something is a little off.
About this area
Tracks drought conditions, drinking water advisories, and major water infrastructure incidents.
Indicators
Latest readings. Changes are shown without judgment of whether up or down is better.
| Indicator | Latest |
|---|---|
Contiguous US in drought (D1 or worse) Source: National Drought Mitigation Center | 21.4% |
Active large-system boil-water notices Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency | 3systems |
Charts
Timeline of developments
Southwest reservoir levels continue seasonal decline
Major Colorado River reservoirs remain below long-term averages heading into the fall.
Source: National Drought Mitigation Center
Sources and citationsWhere this info comes from
- 1.U.S. Drought Monitor: current map
National Drought Mitigation Center. Accessed Sep 27, 2026.
- 2.Safe Drinking Water Information System
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Accessed Sep 27, 2026.
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