What determines the fill rate of an MWS?

The fill rate of a mobile water supply (MWS) is primarily determined by individual jurisdictions. Each jurisdiction may have different requirements, capabilities, and practices for how quickly they want to fill their MWS tanks. These practices are influenced by factors such as the availability of water sources, local infrastructure, and the specific needs of the community it serves.

Local jurisdictions set guidelines based on their resources, operational priorities, and the demand for water during emergencies, which allows them to establish an effective fill rate that meets their unique circumstances. This variability across regions means that while national standards may provide a framework, local practices will dictate the actual fill rate.

Manufacturer specifications can provide maximum capabilities or recommended practices, but they do not define the operational fill rate for a jurisdiction. Likewise, local emergency protocols may outline how to respond to situations requiring water supply, but they are also heavily influenced by what is practical and feasible on the ground, which is shaped by jurisdictional decision-making.