New OpEd by Andrea Gerlak: Heat waves to heighten energy and water insecurity during COVID-19

In a new opinion piece published by The Hill, Dr. Andrea Gerlak, professor in the School of Geography and Development and research professor at the Udall Center for Studies in Public Policy at the University of Arizona, reveals the effects that the COVID-19 pandemic is having on water insecurity, especially in rural communities.

"Though devastating, the pandemic is shining a light on inequities surrounding access to water in the U.S., as well as on the importance of making access to safe and affordable water available to all."

The historically high temperatures, in conjunction with high unemployment rates, expiring moratoriums on utility shut-offs, and an absence of national leadership, are exacerbating an already unequal water infrastructure, leaving low-income households more vulnerable than ever.

Read the full article.