Water is a major contributor to survival in Unturned. It is one of five statuses for the player.
The water bar begins at 100% whenever the player respawns, and will gradually decrease over time. When the water meter reaches 0% the player will slowly die of dehydration. The water meter can be increased by consuming any Drink. Certain foods, like fresh vegetables (Lettuce, Carrots, etc), will also increase your water meter. The rate at which the water percentage decreases can be altered by putting points into the Survival skill in the Defense skill category.