Corpus Christi Faces Water Crisis Amid Drought, Threatening Energy Sector
A severe, multi-year drought in southern Texas has critically depleted water reserves in Corpus Christi, creating a crisis for both residents and the region's vital energy industry. The city, a major port responsible for five percent of U.S. gasoline supply, faces potential forced cutbacks as key reservoirs hit record lows. City officials admit that infrastructure improvements failed to keep pace with increased water sales to industrial customers, including refineries and petrochemical plants. While a new pipeline from the Colorado River recently reached full capacity, it was insufficient to offset the prolonged dry spell. A proposed desalination plant, recommended in 2016 as a drought-proof solution, was stalled due to high costs and environmental concerns. Currently, the city has implemented Stage 3 drought restrictions, limiting outdoor water use for residents. Tensions are rising as citizens face higher bills and usage fines, while large industrial consumers, which use up to 60% of the city's water, can pay surcharges to avoid stricter cuts. Officials are now scrambling to tap groundwater sources, hoping for significant rainfall or hurricane activity to alleviate the shortage before an emergency is declared.
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Corpus Christi Faces Water Crisis Amid Drought, Threatening Energy Sector
A severe, multi-year drought in southern Texas has critically depleted water reserves in Corpus Christi, creating a crisis for both residents and the region's vital energy industry. The city, a major port responsible for five percent of U.S. gasoline supply, faces potential forced cutbacks as key reservoirs hit record lows. City officials admit that infrastructure improvements failed to keep pace with increased water sales to industrial customers, including refineries and petrochemical plants. While a new pipeline from the Colorado River recently reached full capacity, it was insufficient to offset the prolonged dry spell. A proposed desalination plant, recommended in 2016 as a drought-proof solution, was stalled due to high costs and environmental concerns. Currently, the city has implemented Stage 3 drought restrictions, limiting outdoor water use for residents. Tensions are rising as citizens face higher bills and usage fines, while large industrial consumers, which use up to 60% of the city's water, can pay surcharges to avoid stricter cuts. Officials are now scrambling to tap groundwater sources, hoping for significant rainfall or hurricane activity to alleviate the shortage before an emergency is declared.
AP News