Paraíba, Brazil, is facing a severe water crisis, with nine reservoirs completely dry and 39 more classified as being in critical condition. According to the Agency for Water Management of Paraíba (Aesa-PB), these 39 reservoirs have water levels at or below 10% of their total capacity. The dry reservoirs include those in São Mamede, Desterro, Conceição, Teixeira, Gurjão, São José dos Cordeiros, and Picuí, all reporting zero fill levels.

The situation poses a significant threat to local communities and agriculture, as the reservoirs play a vital role in supplying water for both drinking and irrigation. For instance, the reservoir in Taperoá stands at merely 0.1% capacity, while the Caraúbas reservoir hovers just below 10%. The water scarcity underscores the importance of effective water management in the region, as the ongoing drought impacts various aspects of daily life for the residents.

As Aesa-PB continues to monitor the 136 reservoirs in the state, it categorizes them based on their fill levels from those "bleeding" (almost empty) to those in favorable condition. The alarming statistics illuminate a pressing need for immediate action to address water scarcity and ensure sustainable management of water resources in Paraíba, especially with changing climate conditions threatening future water security.