As Corpus Christi water shortage worsens, residents and businesses may soon have to cut their usage 25%
March 17, 2026
As drought tightens its grip on South Texas, city leaders in Corpus Christi are expected to deliver what could be the most sobering update yet on the region’s water supply outlook.
At Tuesday’s city council meeting, officials are expected to present new modeling that outlines a range of potential futures for the city’s water supply — including scenarios that could push the city closer to a Level 1 water emergency sooner than previously anticipated. That would force water customers to reduce their overall water use by 25% or face extra fees, according to the city’s March 2025 drought contingency plan.
The meeting comes after a week of escalating political tension and conflicting messages about just how close the region may be to a serious water shortage.