Puerto Rico is experiencing severe drought conditions that have spread rapidly across the territory during what should be the region’s wet season. By late August, approximately three-quarters of the U.S. territory faced at least moderate drought, with extreme drought zones covering nearly half the island, concentrated in eastern and southwestern areas. The situation prompted Puerto Rico’s governor to declare a state of emergency in late July, followed by a federal drought disaster declaration affecting more than two dozen cities and towns.
The drying trend emerged sharply after an unusually wet winter and spring. From mid-May through mid-July, most of Puerto Rico received less than 60 percent of normal precipitation, with southern and southwestern regions particularly hard hit, receiving less than 20 percent of typical rainfall amounts. High temperatures exacerbated the moisture deficit, with San Juan experiencing one of its warmest Julys on record. Streamflow in major waterways including the Rio Fajardo dropped to record lows.
The drought has created significant hardships for residents and agricultural producers. Multiple municipalities instituted water rationing beginning in early August as supply strains intensified. Farmers face disrupted crop growth in fruit, cacao, banana, and coffee plants due to dry soils, contributing to substantial crop losses. Ranchers are also experiencing diminishing hay supplies. Infrastructure challenges have compounded the water shortage issues affecting communities across the territory.
Assessments of the drought conditions rely on satellite data and ground observations compiled through the U.S. Drought Monitor, a collaborative effort involving multiple federal agencies and universities. The analysis incorporates soil moisture estimates, weather measurements, and streamflow data to track drought severity. The resulting maps guide federal, state, and local officials in deploying emergency resources and disaster assistance to affected areas.
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