Warming winters lead to more nitrate pollution in the drinking water near farms - AP News

Warmer winter temperatures are increasing nitrate contamination in drinking water supplies near agricultural areas. Nitrates, commonly used in fertilizers on farms, typically leach into groundwater during spring thaw and heavy rains, but milder winters are altering this cycle and allowing more pollution to reach water sources year-round. The problem threatens public health, particularly in rural communities that rely on wells and groundwater for drinking water. Nitrate exposure has been linked to health risks including methemoglobinemia in infants and potential increases in certain cancers. Climate change is intensifying this environmental hazard as warming trends continue to reshape seasonal patterns across agricultural regions.