Corpus Christi Faces Water Shortage Due to Prolonged Drought Affecting Residents and Industry

Corpus Christi, a city in southern Texas with a population of about 317,000, is dealing with a water shortage caused by a drought that has lasted most of the past seven years. Key reservoirs have reached their lowest levels on record. The city supplies water to nearby counties and relies on its oil and gas industry, which produces items such as fuel and steel for global shipment.

The drought has strained water reserves, leading to Stage 3 restrictions that pause many outdoor water uses. These measures include limits on watering lawns and other activities. Residents may face higher bills and potential fines for excessive use.

Peter Zanoni, city manager since 2019, stated that the city has not kept pace with water supply and infrastructure needs, a situation that developed over decades. He noted that increased water sales to industrial customers contributed to the current strain.

Zanoni added that while running out of water entirely is unlikely, significant rainfall or new sources are needed to avoid cutbacks for residents and reduced allocations for industry.

At a time when the Iran war is already raising gas prices, the shortage is hitting an area that produces 5% of the U.S. gasoline supply. After a previous drought in the early 2010s, the city extended a pipeline from the Colorado River and promoted conservation, which reduced overall water use.

However, reservoirs did not fully recharge, and the pipeline reached full capacity only last year.

the Shortage Discussions for a desalination plant, recommended in 2016, have stalled due to costs estimated at up to $1.3 billion and environmental concerns. Zanoni said that if the project had proceeded, the plant would be operational now. Officials are currently exploring additional groundwater sources to prevent an emergency through the summer.

Industrial users consume about 60% of the city's water. The drought plan allows large industries to pay a permanent surcharge to avoid higher fees during shortages. A city statement reported that these surcharges generate $6 million annually and that industries remain subject to conservation requirements and potential curtailments.

Isabela Azaiza, co-founder of a grassroots group focused on water issues, said residents are upset about restrictions and rising costs, and some believe industries are not equally affected. Former city council member David Loeb mentioned efforts to tap groundwater and expressed hope for rain, including a light-hearted reference to needing a hurricane without injuries.

The city has implemented Stage 3 restrictions, which include pauses on many outdoor water uses.