Do You Know What To Do If Your Well In Oklahoma Runs Dry?

Oklahoma hasn't seen much rainfall or precipitation in 2025 thus far. Although we're expecting severe weather, it may not combat the abnormally dry conditions. Of all things that the drought may affect, should Oklahomans on well water be concerned about the rain, or the lack thereof?

Oklahoma's current conditions are dryer than normal across the state.

Although some parts of Oklahoma may have seen a little more moisture than others, the state overall is abnormally dry, according to plantmaps.com. "As of February 25, 2025 approximately 18% (12864 square miles) of Oklahoma is under drought conditions and 62% (43656 square miles) is Abnormally dry."

You can see just how dry everything is when you glance over the bridges crossing some of the major rivers in Oklahoma, like the Red River or the Oklahoma River in Oklahoma City. Where there should be running water, there are just large patches of dry land with a few shallow bodies of water scattered throughout the area.

Recent severe weather on the way may bring a little reprieve for the dry conditions.

But how likely would it be for some of the wells in Oklahoma to run dry in conditions like these?

Farming lands facing low water levels, new water monitoring methods may be on the way.

Although data tracking wells on private land in Oklahoma isn't available, there are accounts of aquifers and groundwater running dry on farm land in the state; more so than in other farming states like Nebraska.

The Oklahoma Water Resources Board has been working on a new plan to help manage water resources and ensure that we're all set to have what we need and that farmers will also have what they need in order to continue growing crops.

Metering water wells might be in our future, which will help keep track of water use and levels. Hopefully, the move will prevent wells from running completely dry or prepare users if the well is on track to run out of water.

What happens if a private well runs dry in Oklahoma?

Unfortunately, there are limited options if someone's well does run dry on their private land. According to watersystems.org, homeowners who have a well that has run dry can work with professionals and try a few things:

• Lowering the water pump
• Deepening the exisiting well
• Redeveloping the existing well
• Drilling a new well on the property
• Connecting to a municipal water supply, if available

It's important to remember that each situation is different and property owners should seek professional advice to determine what is the best course of action.

Ways Oklahomans can combat overusing well water.

If you're concerned about overusing your well water, investing in a rain catcher might help lighten the load of how much water you're using. Rain catchers are legal and even encouraged for collecting water that can be used in gardens or even with certain livestock.

Often, local farmers markets and community gardens host classes on how to make your own rain catchers. Check with your local community members to find out when your next rain catching seminar is being held.