Phoenix to Enter Stage 2 Drought Plan in 2027
Phoenix to Enter Stage 2 Drought Plan in 2027
US · Published Nov 13, 2026
• Phoenix will implement Stage 2 of its Drought Management Plan starting January
• This move comes in response to federal Colorado River delivery reductions outlined in the 2027-2028 Operating Guidelines, which cut Lower Basin water allocations by 1.25 million acre-feet annually. Under Stage 2, residents and businesses are asked to voluntarily reduce water usage by 5%. Additionally, a surcharge of $2.10 per 748 gallons will be applied to customers exceeding their monthly water usage thresholds. The city has been in Stage 1 since June 2022, and this escalation aims to address the ongoing water scarcity in the region.

Impact & Risks

The Stage 2 drought plan will primarily affect heavy water users in Phoenix, Arizona. Approximately 16% of residential, 7% of commercial, and 1% of industrial customers are expected to incur surcharges if they exceed their monthly water thresholds. The financial impact could amount to $40 million in surcharge revenue over one year, which will be directed toward conservation programs and securing additional water supplies. The broader risk stems from reduced Colorado River water deliveries, which could strain resources for the entire Lower Basin region.

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