Puerto Rico Governor Declares State of Emergency Over Island‑wide Drought

Governor Jenniffer Aydin González Colón signed two executive orders declaring a state of emergency for water use in Puerto Rico as low precipitation leaves major reservoirs at critically low levels. The orders activate the Puerto Rico National Guard to assist with water transport, distribution and purification, prioritize water allocation to the most affected regions, and permit the acquisition, leasing and installation of tanks, pumps and other equipment. They also allow a price‑freeze on essential supplies needed for the response.

The administration is pursuing federal financing, requesting $61.8 million from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and $65.2 million from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund to support infrastructure upgrades through the Infrastructure Financing Authority, the Department of Natural Resources and Environment and the Authority of Aqueducts and Sewers. The drought currently affects roughly 25 % of the island with severe conditions and another 36 % with moderate dryness, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.