The US government has declared a drought disaster in more than two dozen municipalities in Puerto Rico. The decision was made on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, amid worsening water problems on the island.
More than 33% of Puerto Rico's territory is under extreme drought, with another 30% under severe drought. July was the driest month in San Juan in over 120 years of records and the second hottest for the capital.
Governor Jennifer González requested the declaration from the US Department of Agriculture more than two weeks ago. "From the very beginning, we have clearly outlined the needs of our farmers," she said.
The disaster declaration covers 26 of 78 municipalities, including Cabo Rojo, Ponce, Yauco, Aibonito, and Lares. This will allow farmers and agricultural producers to access emergency loans.
"This is an important step," noted Puerto Rico's Secretary of Agriculture, Irving Rodríguez. He urged all affected producers to document their losses.
As early as the beginning of August, the governor introduced water rationing measures in certain areas of San Juan and six other cities. More than 180 thousand subscribers remain without water for 48 hours under a rotating schedule.
No relief is in sight. Water problems are exacerbated not only by the drought but also by aging infrastructure that loses a significant portion of the resource.
How long will the island cope with such conditions?
