São Paulo water supply faces drought and meter theft crisis

A severe dry spell in São Paulo state has lowered rainfall and reduced reservoir levels, prompting authorities to cut night‑time water pressure. The pressure‑reduction program, managed through the Integrated Metropolitan System (SIM), has saved about 160 billion litres of water—enough for the capital’s consumption for two months. Officials stress that full restoration depends on rain in key catchment areas such as the Cantareira system, while urging residents to adopt water‑saving habits like shorter showers and turning off taps while brushing teeth.

In the Baixada Santista region, Sabesp reported 1,807 water‑meter thefts in the first half of 2026, accounting for more than 77 % of all thefts recorded in the previous year. The highest numbers occurred in São Vicente, Guarujá and Praia Grande. Stolen meters disrupt consumption monitoring, cause leaks and water loss, and delay billing until replacement. Victims are advised to file a police report and contact Sabesp for free replacement within 48 hours. A recent incident captured on security camera showed a thief stealing a meter from a salon in Santos in under a minute.