The Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (AAA) opened a small gate at the Carraízo reservoir on Thursday to release some pressure from the reservoir, which was at the edge of the Spilling band. According to Michelle Cobb, AAA spokesperson, the small gate, known as the mini gate, was opened to avoid complications. Recent rains in the Carraízo Lake basin have allowed the reservoir to reach optimal storage levels.
The AAA will continue to monitor the reservoir’s conditions and maintain communication with Municipal Emergency Management offices to prevent any situations. As of Thursday morning, the Carraízo reservoir reported a level of 40.88 meters, but by 12:45 PM, the US Geological Survey raised it to 40.94 meters, just one centimeter from the Spilling band. The drought affecting the island led to a water rationing plan for Carraízo customers in early August, which was temporarily suspended on September 1 after a modest recovery.
Currently, 64.22% of Puerto Rico is abnormally dry, while 9.05% is experiencing extreme drought, particularly in the south. Meanwhile, the La Plata reservoir in Comerío continues to lose water, with a decrease of 8 centimeters in the last two days.