Mexico City, home to nearly 22 million people, is facing a severe water crisis that has raised concerns about a potential “day zero” scenario. The city’s challenges stem from a combination of factors, including geographical obstacles, rapid urbanization, and aging infrastructure worsened by climate change effects.
The city’s historical development, built on a former lakebed with clay-rich soil, makes it susceptible to subsidence, seismic activity, and climate-related issues. Urban expansion has further complicated the situation by replacing natural water sources with concrete, exacerbating flooding and drought.
Mexico City heavily relies on its aquifer, which supplies about 60% of its water. However, overexploitation has led to a rapid decline in water levels and an alarming subsidence rate of 20 inches per year. This, coupled with deficient rainfall and extended droughts, has pushed the city to impose significant restrictions on water extraction from reservoirs.
Recent reports indicate that nearly 90% of the city is experiencing severe drought conditions, reflecting a broader trend of drought across 60% of the nation. Natural climate fluctuations, such as La Nina and El Nino events, further exacerbate the situation by intensifying droughts or disrupting regular rainy seasons.
The looming water crisis has raised concerns about the possibility of reaching “day zero,” where water reserves would be insufficient to meet the city’s essential needs. Authorities are under pressure to implement sustainable solutions to address water scarcity and ensure the city’s long-term resilience against future crises.