Corpus Christi Imposes Water Restrictions

In Corpus Christi, Texas, residents face water restrictions as the city and surrounding Coastal Bend area experience a growing water shortage. Since August 2024, lawn watering and non-essential car washing have been prohibited. The city’s reservoirs were only about 8% full as of May 2026, prompting concern about a potential water emergency in December 2026.

The region relies on rainfall and runoff from three river basins, but drought conditions since 2021 have diminished supplies. Expanding industrial activity, particularly the Port of Corpus Christi, has increased demand, and plans for a $1.2 billion desalination plant were canceled in 2025 due to rising costs.

Currently, officials are pursuing groundwater access and wastewater reclamation. They also consider purchasing water from a nearly completed private desalination plant, though costs remain under negotiation.

Neighboring communities have challenged the groundwater access permits. Long-term planning must account for continued drought and climate change. The work to secure reliable water supplies continues.