For people on public water, the possibility of having no running water is more remote. Water utilities like everyone else responsible for public health and safety have been making efforts to ensure uninterrupted service at the turn of the millenium. Most systems have been assessing, planning, and testing solutions to the Y2K problem for many months. Many have creative means of dealing with potential problems such as having a New Years Eve party for employees and their families at the plant. However water utilities, like everyone else, are dependent to some extent on the Y2K efforts of their suppliers and others who may not be properly prepared.
Small communities appear to face a greater possibility of failure.
It is probably prudent for everyone to have some drinking water stored. Although there is a good chance no one will experience any problems, a supply of water will ensure that just in case there is a power outage or lack of water due to the Y2K problem, a blizzard, or any other emergency you will be prepared. Since treated water stores well, the easiest thing to do to prepare for Y2K is to store a couple days supply of water. A normally active person needs to drink two quarts of water each day. Because additional water is needed for food preparation and hygiene, you should store a minimum of one gallon per person, per day.