According to the US Drought Monitor's latest report, moderate drought in Puerto Rico has nearly doubled in the past week, now covering 34.96% of the island, up from 17.56% the previous week. Meteorologist Carlos Anselmi from the National Meteorological Service explained that the increase is due to the lack of rainfall in various parts of the country. The moderate drought, classified as D1, can cause stress in crops, lead farmers to conserve water, increase the risk of wildfires, and decrease water levels in reservoirs, lakes, rivers, and streams.
Additionally, 41.79% of the territory remains under abnormally dry conditions, classified as D0, while 5.89% is under severe drought, or D2, mainly in the southern region. In total, 82.64% of Puerto Rico is experiencing abnormally dry conditions or some level of drought. Anselmi warned that the drought's effects can intensify if dry conditions persist, affecting water supply, agriculture, ecosystems, and increasing the risk of wildfires.
Several municipalities, including Santa Isabel, Lajas, Salinas, Guánica, and Cabo Rojo, have areas under severe drought.