Phoenix-area cities offering water conservation rebates

The Southwest’s megadrought is hitting the Navajo Nation hard as wells dry up and families drive farther for clean water. A new state of emergency could unlock millions for drought relief and water infrastructure. But leaders say a much bigger fight over water rights may decide what happens next. Mason Carroll reports.

A federal Colorado River plan could bring major water cuts to Arizona, with CAP receiving about half its usual supply as officials weigh next steps.

People in Yuma are sounding the alarm after seeing some of the lowest Colorado River levels they can remember. While officials say water levels should rise again as upstream dams are adjusted, residents and farmers worry this could be a troubling preview of Arizona’s water future. As negotiations continue over Lake Mead, Lake Powell and long-term Colorado River cuts, communities that depend on this water are watching closely.

Phoenix is preparing for stricter water conservation as deeper Colorado River cuts loom. City leaders say a possible Stage Two Water Warning could mean voluntary reductions, more water audits and rebates, and possible surcharges that may affect family budgets. The city says the taps should keep flowing but as Molly McBride reports, the cost of resilience may be rising.

The town of Kearny could use up its entire water allotment by August if current usage continues, leaving the community about 90 miles from Phoenix in a crisis.

The Colorado River is slipping closer to a critical threshold, and federal officials say emergency-style action may be needed. Lake Powell’s falling levels are raising alarms about water deliveries and hydropower generation across the West. As Karina Bazarte explains, what happens next could reshape Arizona’s water future.