The inequitable exposure of socially vulnerable groups to water shortages across the United States

Abstract Socially vulnerable populations in the United States are bearing highest costs of water scarcity, which is likely to worsen with climate change, population growth, and growing disparities between areas high demand location available supplies. Prior research showing that socially groups inequitably exposed shortages has focused on singular dimensions social vulnerability, typically relatively localized geographies, leaving us an incomplete understanding national scope shortage risks. This study combines data surface U.S. Center for Disease Control’s Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) spatially identify clusters high-shortage, high-vulnerability hotspots from 71 195 census tracts across conterminous States. We estimate 5 percent lower 48 states—nearly 15 million people—lives high-SVI, high-shortage hotspot areas. examine relationship exposure (a) SVI, (b) SVI themes, (c) indicators used construct within hotspots. find evidence constitute environmental injustice, as multiple vulnerability disproportionately shortages. However, distinct correlated a higher probability vary regions hotspots, indicating adaptation strategies will have be tailored their specific contexts. statement certify all Authors seen approved manuscript being submitted. confirm article Authors’ original work we no conflicts interest.