Phoenix officials said this week the city will remain in a stage 1 water alert even though the United States Bureau of Reclamation announced a return to a tier 1 shortage on the Colorado River in 2024 as a result of a wet winter that elevated levels at lakes Powell and Mead. 

“While this favorable winter provides temporary relief to the Colorado River system, Phoenix, which receives 40% of its water from the river, is asking residents to continue conserving water due to the unpredictability of the river, prolonged drought and climate change,” city officials said in a release.

Under the city’s drought management plan, a stage 1 water alert is declared when an insufficient supply of water appears likely due to water system or supply limitations, triggering an intensive public education and information program.

City leaders said those outreach efforts won't stop.

"We must continue working together as a community to conserve and sustain our water supply,” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said. “At the city, we will keep working on substantive, sustainable development policies and investing in long-term plans, including the creation of our regional advanced water purification system.

“While large-scale investments and policies are important, Phoenix residents can play a critical role by monitoring their water usage and saving as much as possible."

In May, the Phoenix City Council approved an agreement with Bureau of Reclamation, the Arizona Department of Water Resources, and Central Arizona Project to voluntarily forgo up to 50,000 acre-feet of its Colorado River entitlement each year from 2023 to 2025.

“We must all do our part to ensure that the Colorado River remains healthy and provides the water necessary for communities," said Cynthia Campbell, water resources management adviser.

 “As a city, we are committed to conservation and doing our part to protect water security.”

Learn more water conservation tips: phoenix.gov/bewatersmart.