US declares drought disaster for parts of Puerto Rico as dry conditions persist

The U.S. government declared a drought disaster on Wednesday for over two dozen cities and towns in Puerto Rico as water issues worsen on the U.S. territory, with no signs of improvement. More than two-thirds of the island is experiencing extreme drought, accompanied by another third under severe drought conditions. July marked the driest month in San Juan's history within the past 120 years and the second-hottest for the capital island.

Governor Jenniffer González formally requested the USDA's declaration more than two weeks ago, highlighting the plight of local farmers. The disaster declaration enables farmers and agricultural producers in those areas to secure emergency loans. Farmers have been forced to cease production as early as May due to the persistent dry spell, according to Fello Pérez, a technical assistance provider for small-scale farmers in Puerto Rico.

Hydroponic farmers and those cultivating vegetables and fruits like coffee, cacao, plantains, and bananas have been particularly hard hit by the lack of water. Livestock breeders are also affected as they struggle to feed animals without access to water. Puerto Rico's governor declared a state of emergency in late July because of the ongoing dry conditions and activated the National Guard to transport, distribute, and purify water.

Rotating water rationing measures have been implemented in San Juan and six other cities, affecting around 180,000 customers. Large trucks are delivering water to those areas, prioritizing hospitals and residences for older residents. Meteorologists attribute the ongoing drought to a natural warming cycle called El Niño, which has also impacted neighboring U.S. Virgin Islands.