Flooding Causes Water Shortages

When you hear the words “Lack of potable water” what comes to mind?  Drought?  Developing countries?  What about flooding in a major U.S. city?  This week, Nashville’s flood served as a wakeup call to the serious potable water shortages that can result from flooding. One of two water treatment plants in Nashville is currently under water; making it inoperable and reducing the amount of potable water that is available to people throughout the city. Despite city officials urging citizens to conserve water, records show that water use over the last few days, during a time of crisis, is nearly equal to that used last year, under normal conditions. Unlike food, fuel, and other supplies, Nashville cannot import water from another source to meet their needs; all they have is their local water resources. Cities throughout the world face an uncertain future as climate change progresses. However, one thing is certain; severe water events (both droughts and floods) are imminent. Each of us plays an important role in conserving our local water resources. Don’t wait for a crisis, Start Now!