The city anticipates going to “Drought Stage 2 – Water Warning” by the end of 2026. Here’s what that means for residents.

PHOENIX — City officials say Phoenix has been preparing for drought conditions for “over 100 years.”

But drought conditions could be closer than residents realize. 

RELATED: The Colorado River is in trouble. Some groups want the government to step up

The City of Phoenix discussed the Colorado River, Phoenix’s water supply, and the city’s water demand during a city council meeting on Tuesday, April 28. 

The water in Phoenix comes from a variety of sources: The Salt and Verde rivers, the Colorado River, and groundwater, according to the city council. It’s that “diversified portfolio” and decades of planning and investment that are allowing the city to maintain services to residents.

“Phoenix is not running out of water. We have planned for drought for decades, and we continue to invest in the infrastructure, conservation programs and water supplies needed to serve our community today and into the future,” Phoenix Water Services Director Brandy Kelso said. “As conditions evolve, maintaining that reliability will continue to be a shared effort between the City and our customers.”

However, with cuts coming to the Colorado River, the city anticipates going to “Dough Stage 2 – Water Warning” by the end of 2026. This could mean voluntary reductions, expanded audits, expanded rebates, and surcharges. According to the city’s drought management plan, a “water warning” means an insufficient supply situation has occurred. 

Prolonged drought and rising temperatures have reduced river flows, and new federal guidelines governing water use “across the basin” are expected to come down the pipe in the next few years, the city says of the Colorado River. 

“The Colorado River is facing significant challenges, and the entire region must work together to adapt,” Phoenix Water Resources Management Advisor Max Wilson said. “Phoenix has taken proactive steps to prepare, but continued collaboration, both regionally and within our community, will be essential to maintaining water reliability for our residents and economy.”

According to the city council, Phoenix has made “significant progress” in the face of challenges when it comes to reducing water use. The city said water use per person has declined even as the population has grown. 

“Water security is essential to protecting public health, supporting economic growth and maintaining Phoenix’s quality of life,” Kelso said. “Phoenix will continue to plan ahead, invest responsibly and work with regional partners and our community to ensure a sustainable water future.”

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