Cape Coral residents feel drought impact amid global water crisis warning

CAPE CORAL, Fla. - A new UN report warns that the world has entered a state of 'water bankruptcy,' indicating that we are using more water than nature can replenish.

This warning hits close to home for residents of Cape Coral, known for its canals and beaches.

Lee County is already experiencing a severe drought, just 100 days into the dry season, according to Drought Monitor. The UN report cautions that communities pumping more water each year may reach a point of no return, a state referred to as water bankruptcy.

Jessica Pinsky, chief policy officer for Captains for Clean Water, said, "We don't really need a Global Report to know what that looks like. You know, we experienced that firsthand here in south, south Florida."

Residents like Bunny Switvenberg are feeling the impact. Switvenberg, who was buying plastic plants due to the dryness, expressed her concerns.

"I can't even think you know what it would be like without clean water. I mean, the idea of hearing the phrase dead water is just terrifying," said Switvenberg.

Despite the global warning, Captains for Clean Water remains optimistic about the future.

They emphasize that water bankruptcy isn't inevitable and that proactive measures can make a difference. Cape Coral still has some "money in the bank" when it comes to water resources, but action is necessary to maintain it.