One of the basic needs of every organism on the earth is ‘DRINKING WATER’. According to WHO’s definition,”Drinking water is that doesn’t represent any significant risk to health over a lifetime of consumption, including different sensitivities that may occur between life stages.” So, the question is ‘Does we always get risk-free drinking water always?’ And the answer is NO. The quality of drinking water available around us is affected by many factors, which includes Rainfall. It, in turn, affects the drinking water supply.

Although more rainfall can add to freshwater resources, heavier rainfall leads to more rapid movement of water from the atmosphere back to the oceans, reducing our ability to store and use it. Water quality is strongly impacted by runoff from rain events. Especially during and after storms when streams and rivers are cloudy and look brown. When it rains, the dirt and many other contaminants that build-up on the surface of the ground or pavement is washed off into streams and rivers. This lessens the safe drinking water supply at the affected areas. During heavy rains drinking water supply at coastal areas are highly affected. As sea level rises, saltwater moves into the freshwater, which requires desalination or seeking water from other resources.

Acid rain, which contains harmful chemicals, will affect the quality of water by entering into water systems. So water supplies coming from lakes or streams right after the rain would affect human health directly. So, as the water quality may change from different suppliers, especially during rains, it is necessary to be cautious about drinking water. It is always advised to use filters or boil water before its consumption. It is advisable to check the source of the water supply to reduce the risk of getting affected.

Read More: Sustainable Agricultural Water Management