The Stream, May 6: California Adopts 25 Percent Water Cuts

The Global Rundown

California approved mandatory water cuts, hundreds of cities in Iran face water shortages, and major cities in the United States could be at risk of drought-induced water stress. Conflicts over water and land resources intensified in Kenya. Turkey plans to send water to Cyprus by the end of July.

“It is better to prepare now than face much more painful cuts should it not rain in the fall.”– Felicia Marcus, chairwoman of California’s State Water Resources Control Board, on a unanimous vote to approve 25 percent water cuts for cities and rules that regulate water use. The new rules are the latest action taken to secure water supplies as a severe drought continues into its fourth year. (Associated Press)

By The Numbers

93 people Killed in conflicts between pastoralists in Kenya’s Turkana and West Pokot counties. The area has a history of conflicts over water and pasture. Bloomberg

75 million cubic meters Amount to be transferred annually from Turkey to northern Cyprus, beginning with the completion of pipelines in July. Famagusta Gazette Cyprus

Science, Studies, And Reports

Cities like New York and Washington, D.C., are among the areas at risk of water stress due to drought, according to a new index created by researchers at Columbia University, City University of New York, and Hohai University. The index takes into account both water demand and climate factors. State of the Planet

On The Radar

A combination of low precipitation and inefficient water management has led to water shortages in 520 cities across Iran. Approximately 60 percent of major dam reservoirs in the country are empty, according to Iran’s Energy Ministry. Press TV

Codi Kozacek

A news correspondent for Circle of Blue based out of Hawaii. She writes The Stream, Circle of Blue’s daily digest of international water news trends. Her interests include food security, ecology and the Great Lakes.
Contact Codi Kozacek