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The upcoming FIFA World Cup will bring a significant influx of visitors, increased demand, and heightened global attention to the area. Washington State Department of Health (DOH), Office of Drinking Water (ODW) encourages public water systems (PWSs) to begin preparing now to ensure uninterrupted, safe, and resilient operations during World Cup events throughout the state.
Given current statewide drought conditions and the likelihood of continued water supply constraints, preparation efforts should also include water conservation planning and demand management strategies to support system reliability during periods of increased use. Additional drought planning and response resources are provided on our Drought 2026 webpage.
Early planning will help safeguard public health and maintain public confidence throughout the event. Proactive planning includes:
- Preparing conservation protocols to address drought impacts and increased demand during the event
- Reviewing emergency response plans
- Strengthening coordination with local, state, and federal partners
- Assessing system redundancies
- Enhancing monitoring and security protocols
About the 2026 FIFA World Cup
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature 48 teams and will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 8 through July 19, 2026.
One of the iconic host cities for the 2026 World Cup is Seattle, Seattle | FIFA World Cup 2026™ Host City. Fan zones across the state are hosted in other large cities including Bellingham, Bremerton, Everett, Olympia, Lacey, Pasco, Richland, Kennewick, Spokane, Tacoma, Yakima, Vancouver.
In addition to match days, water systems should anticipate increased demand associated with tourism, temporary population increases, and seasonal heat.
Drought Conditions and Water Conservation
Washington is currently experiencing a statewide drought due to reduced snowpack and anticipated summer water supply limitations. These conditions, combined with increased demand during the World Cup, may place additional strain on water systems.
PWSs are encouraged to:
- Promote indoor and outdoor water conservation practices. See our Water Conservation Guidance flyers, Indoor Water Conservation 331-120-1 (PDF) and Outdoor Water Conservation 331-120-2 (PDF).
- Communicate clearly with customers about conservation expectations.
- Review and implement demand management strategies.
- Coordinate with local jurisdictions on conservation measures, if needed.
- Monitor system capacity and plan for reduced supply scenarios
State agencies are actively coordinating drought response efforts and will continue to provide updated information as conditions evolve.
Strengthen Security Ahead of Time
In preparation for the increased visibility, demand, and potential security threats surrounding the FIFA World Cup, your PWS should take the following measures to strengthen protection against cyber and physical risks:
Cybersecurity Protection Measures
- Conduct a comprehensive cybersecurity risk assessment of SCADA, treatment, and distribution control systems (Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Water Cybersecurity Toolkit).
- Ensure all software, firmware, and operating systems are fully patched and up to date
- Implement multi-factor authentication for remote access and privileged accounts, CISA MFA Guidance.
- Restrict and monitor remote access connections and disable unnecessary services
- Segment operational technology networks from information technology networks
- Review and limit user permissions to only those necessary for job functions
- Increase real-time monitoring and enable logging for anomaly detection
- Back up critical system configurations and test restoration procedures
- Conduct cybersecurity awareness training for staff at CISA Training Resources.
- Coordinate with state and federal cybersecurity partners
Physical Security Protection Measures
- Inspect and reinforce perimeter security and access controls
- Test alarms, cameras, and intrusion detection systems
- Increase monitoring during high-traffic periods
- Verify access credentials and deactivate those no longer needed
- Limit access to critical infrastructure areas
- Secure chemical storage areas
- Review emergency response and incident notification procedures
- Coordinate with local law enforcement and emergency management
- Ensure backup power and redundancy systems are operational
- Conduct tabletop exercises simulating cyber and physical threat scenarios tied to large-scale events Washington State Military Department (WA MIL), Emergency Management Division (EMD) Training and Exercises.
Coordination and Preparedness Resources
Water systems are encouraged to align with ongoing statewide preparedness efforts for the FIFA World Cup. Washington State Military Department, Emergency Management Division (EMD) and partner agencies are actively coordinating planning, training, and response activities to support this event.
Available support includes:
Office of Drinking Water Support and Resources
The Office of Drinking Water provides ongoing support to public water systems in preparing for emergencies, maintaining system resilience, and protecting public health.
PWSs are encouraged to utilize available ODW resources and technical assistance, including:
ODW will continue to share information, guidance, and coordination support leading up to and during the FIFA World Cup to assist water systems in maintaining safe and reliable operations.
Additional Resources
These resources include assessment tools, planning templates, checklists, training, and subject-matter support that you can use to strengthen your water system’s resilience against cyber threats and better prepare for physical security challenges. Integrating them into planning and drills now will help PWSs maintain continuity of safe operations during periods of increased demand and elevated threat activity like the FIFA World Cup.
Cybersecurity and Risk Resources
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Cybersecurity for the Water Sector: Comprehensive EPA guidance on cybersecurity best practices, assessment tools, technical assistance, and planning templates for drinking water and wastewater systems. (US EPA).
- Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Water & Wastewater Cybersecurity Toolkit: A consolidated set of resources (basic and advanced) to help water systems assess vulnerabilities and implement stronger cyber defenses. (CISA).
- Joint “Top Cyber Actions for Securing Water Systems” Fact Sheet: Practical cyber risk reduction actions developed by CISA, EPA, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). (CISA).
- Cyber Incident Response Guide (CISA/EPA/FBI): Step-by-step support for responding to and managing cyber incidents affecting water infrastructure. (American Public Power Association).
🔐 Sector and Industry Organizations
🧰 Additional Tools and Support
- EPA Cybersecurity Technical Assistance: Direct EPA assistance or consultations to help identify vulnerabilities and recommend mitigation strategies. (EPA)
- CISA Free Cyber Vulnerability Scanning Program: A service that helps utilities identify exposures and prioritize fixes. (CISA)
- Cross-Sector Cybersecurity Performance Goals: Baseline cybersecurity protections recommended for all critical infrastructure sectors, including water. (CISA)
Next Steps and Ongoing Coordination
Taking proactive steps now will help your water system maintain operational continuity, protect public health, and reduce vulnerability during the heightened activity and visibility associated with the FIFA World Cup.
We will share updates, guidance, and relevant information as it is received or developed, as appropriate to support public water systems.
Thank you for your continued partnership and commitment to providing safe and reliable drinking water.
For questions or technical assistance, please contact the Office of Drinking Water at 360-236-3100, or toll free at 800-521-0323.
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