Which is a key benefit of surface water as a drinking source in urban areas?

The key benefit of surface water as a drinking source in urban areas is that large amounts can be easily stored. Surface water sources, such as lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, provide significant volumes of water that can be collected and stored for municipal use. This ease of storage is crucial for ensuring a continuous and reliable water supply, particularly in urban settings where demand can fluctuate based on population size, weather patterns, and seasonal variations.

These storage facilities can be designed to manage large quantities of water effectively, supporting both day-to-day consumption and peak demands during dry periods or emergencies. Additionally, surface water systems can be integrated into the infrastructure of urban areas more readily, often utilizing existing landscapes and topography for efficient water collection and distribution. This characteristic makes surface water a very practical and essential source for managing urban water needs.