Puerto Rico water crisis worsens as third super‑aqueduct break found

The Puerto Rico Authority of Aqueducts and Sewers (AAA) announced the discovery of a third break in the island's 72‑inch super‑aqueduct, leaving more than 100,000 customers in San Juan, Bayamón, Guaynabo, Gurabo, Isla Verde, Caguas, Juncos and Aguas Buenos without reliable potable water. Technicians are evaluating the new fault while the governor has activated the National Guard, frozen water rates and promised credits to affected subscribers. The Department of Health is monitoring water‑truck deliveries and potential disease risks.

In response, the Puerto Rican government launched an inter‑agency emergency operation, mobilizing ten agencies—including the AAA, National Guard, public safety, fire department, emergency management, housing and social services—to distribute over 5,000 water boxes to more than 28 public‑housing complexes and vulnerable households. Additional hot meals and water‑truck refills were provided to senior homes and care facilities. Officials said the effort will continue until repairs are completed and service is fully restored.