U.S. Drought Reaches ‘Apocalyptic’ Extremes

Tuesday, July 22, 2014 by: J. D. Heyes

(NaturalNews) Wide swaths of the United States remain mired in one of the worst droughts in recent times, prompting some to describe conditions as near “apocalyptic.”

California, which is essentially the nation’s fruit basket, has been particularly hard hit. As noted by The Economic Collapse Blog, some scientists and climatologists are beginning to use phrases like “the worst drought” and “as bad as you can imagine” to describe the current situation in the western half of the nation.

“Thanks to an epic drought that never seems to end,” reported the blog, “we are witnessing the beginning of a water crisis that most people never even dreamed was possible in this day and age.”

How bad? California is preparing to ban people from watering lawns and washing cars — but if the drought persists, trust that such measures will pale in comparison to the tight restrictions that are on the way.

Here are some additional reports that describe just how bad things have gotten:

– The Los Angeles Times has reported that 80 percent of California is now in “extreme” drought:

The NWS’ Drought Monitor Update for July 15 shows 81% of California in the category of extreme drought or worse, up from 78%. Three months ago, it was 68%.

The new data comes as officials are getting tough on water wasters.

Las Vegas may have to shut down

– The State Water Resources Control Board has voted to give local authorities the power to fine those who waste water up to $500 a day. The board also says that nearly 50 communities around the state are on the verge of running out of water.

– Many Southern California cities, including Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and Long Beach, already have mandatory restrictions in place.

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