Puerto Rico water rationing due to drought

United States — Puerto Rico will begin a rotating water rationing program on Friday across the island in response to intense drought, forcing tens of thousands of people to go without water for 48 hours at a time. The rationing will last at least through the end of August, according to the Puerto Rico — Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority. Governor Jenniffer González-Colón stated that the situation is out of their hands and is a result of climate conditions. San Juan experienced its driest July on record, and nearly 68% of the island is experiencing drought conditions. The United States — National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration outlook indicates a greater than 70% chance of below-normal rainfall and above-normal heat from August through October, as a strengthening El Niño–Southern Oscillation suppresses tropical waves. Seven municipalities, including San Juan, will be affected in the current phase, all served by the critically low Carraizo reservoir. The authority will deploy water trucks to affected communities, prioritizing hospitals and long-term care facilities, and urged residents to boil water before use.