State Water Board's Drought Information and Updates

Emergency regulations in effect through December 2023
The State Water Board is considering permanent regulations for urban water suppliers to establish water use efficiency goals and prevent drought emergencies in the future.

Our Role in Drought

Our Role in Drought
The State Water Board monitors real-time environmental conditions, administers water rights, and coordinates with other entities to protect California's water supply in times of drought.

Highlights

Governor Newsom Announces Water Strategy For a Hotter, Drier California
California's Water Supply Strategy outlines actions needed now to invest in new sources, transform water management.
View the Water Strategy
California is in a drought
The end of water year 2022 on September 30 marked the driest three year period on record. Dry conditions are expected to continue into fall, and we can all do our part to conserve water.
Visit Save Our Water
Emergency regulations are in effect
Wasteful water uses are prohibited, and the State Water Board is considering adopting additional emergency regulations in response to the Governor's March 28th Executive Order.
Read the regulations
Join an upcoming drought meeting
The State Water Board is hosting virtual and hybrid meetings to provide updates on drought and emergency regulations.
See Our Event Calendar
Our Role in Drought
The State Water Board monitors real-time environmental conditions, administers water rights, and coordinates with other entities to protect California's water supply in times of drought.
Learn more about our role

Drinking Water Assistance

Are you having trouble getting water in your home? Help is available for households with water shortages.

Funding

The State Water Board funds projects that address urgent drinking water needs and long-term resilience.

Regional Drought Response

Drought actions and curtailments are based on the unique and evolving conditions of individual watersheds.

Curtailment Orders

When water is limited, the State Water Board can restrict water use by curtailing water rights based on priority.

Water Conservation

The governor called on Californians to voluntarily reduce their water use by 15 percent during the drought.

Resources for Water Systems

The State Water Board works with water systems to manage drought impacts and meet water conservation goals.