Residents across São Paulo have been forced to adapt their daily lives due to severe water shortages affecting all regions of the city. With water supply reduced to low pressure during the evening into the early morning hours, people are resorting to filling plastic bottles with water to manage their hygiene, as exemplified by Eriandida Teodozio, who prepares her water supply each day before work. Despite being in the rainy season, the situation has gotten worse since last year, highlighting systemic issues in water management in the metropolitan area.

The water supply is managed by the Sabesp utility company, which has implemented a contingency plan in response to regulatory agency directives amid ongoing drought conditions that have severely depleted reservoir levels. These measures have not been classified as a water rotation system, which is typically a more severe restriction but reflects the growing challenges in ensuring access to essential water services in a populous area. This situation raises concerns about the sustainability of water resources and the management capacities in place to handle extreme weather conditions.

As the government of São Paulo under Governor Tarcísio de Freitas deals with public outcry over water access, the repercussions extend to all aspects of life, including how businesses operate and public services function. The situation could have long-term implications for public health, economic activity, and social stability in urban areas if not addressed effectively. This water crisis underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to bolster infrastructure and resource management in the face of climate change and increased urban demand.