Water line breaks are escalating in El Campo due to Wharton County’s ongoing drought, and repair parts are in short supply. Crews are now fixing 10 to 12 leaks per week, double the July average, using clamps to seal and reinforce the damaged pipes. Unfortunately, the clamp supply is running low due to drought conditions across the country. Despite these challenges, El Campo is faring better than neighboring communities thanks to the utility department’s efficient leak prioritization. El Campo hopes to avoid drought restrictions, but the risk remains when rains return and the ground shifts.