The United States faces significant freshwater challenges due to pollution, population growth, climate change, and engineering. While only 2.5% of Earth's water is freshwater, nearly all is underground, and its availability is threatened. 

The American West is witnessing a stark increase in aridification, exacerbating water scarcity, while the East is experiencing intensified rainfall, leading to more frequent and severe flooding, painting a grim picture of the water crisis. 

Population growth and agricultural demands, especially in the Lower Colorado River Basin, exacerbate water use problems. 

Conservation, innovative solutions, and better water management are essential to addressing this crisis. Key actions include reducing agricultural water use, employing greywater systems, and ensuring individuals understand their water sources. 

Visit ABC News' report prepared for Earth Month in April, "Why parts of America are 'certainly in a water crisis' and what can be done about it," and visit "The Power of Water" for an immersive story experience.