US government declares drought disaster for US Virgin Islands

Washington has designated the U.S. Virgin Islands as a drought disaster area as parched conditions persist across St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. The declaration, announced on Thursday, enables farmers and agricultural producers to apply for federal emergency loans. Governor Albert Bryan Jr. emphasized that the drought remains a serious threat to the islands' food security, economy, and way of life, stating that the federal assistance will serve as a valuable tool to cope with its impacts.

The worsening drought has also impacted neighboring Puerto Rico, where authorities have introduced water rationing measures in certain neighborhoods of seven cities, including San Juan. Over 33% of Puerto Rico is currently under extreme drought conditions, with an additional 30% facing severe drought. Scientists attribute the prolonged dry spell to a strong El Niño warming cycle, which is expected to result in a below-average Atlantic hurricane season this year.