Topic overview
In brief
- Puerto Rico is facing a severe drought, with over 180,000 customers affected by water rationing measures.
- The drought has been exacerbated by extreme heat, with July being the driest month in over 120 years.
- Governor Jenniffer González has stated that the situation is beyond their control, and the future of water availability remains uncertain.
Summary
Puerto Rico is currently grappling with a severe drought that has led to the implementation of water rationing measures in major cities, including San Juan. Starting Friday, over 180,000 customers will experience water outages for 48 hours at a time, as part of an alternating schedule. This decision comes as the U.S. territory faces extreme heat warnings and a lack of rainfall, with July being recorded as the driest month in over 120 years for San Juan. The U.S. Drought Monitor indicates that nearly 25% of Puerto Rico is under severe drought conditions, while an additional 36% is experiencing moderate drought.
Governor Jenniffer González has expressed concern over the situation, stating that it is beyond their control and that there is no guarantee of improvement. Hydrologist Emanuel Rodríguez from the National Weather Service has noted that while heavy rains typically arrive by the end of August during the Atlantic hurricane season, there is no certainty that this will occur this year. The water rationing measures will also affect neighborhoods in cities such as Carolina, Juncos, Gurabo, Trujillo Alto, Canovanas, and Loiza.