PUERTO RICO — Water rationing is starting on Friday in Puerto Rico as officials respond to a prolonged drought that has pushed water supplies to concerning levels.
Beginning Friday morning, residents in seven municipalities will rotate through scheduled 48-hour periods without running water.
The measure is intended to conserve remaining supplies as officials monitor reservoir conditions across the island.
Puerto Rico’s governor said the decision follows an assessment showing that water levels in a key reservoir have fallen faster than expected.
Officials are warning residents to prepare for service interruptions and continue conserving water whenever possible.
The restrictions come after an unusually dry stretch across Puerto Rico.
A drought monitor shows July was the driest month in more than 120 years for the capital city of San Juan, highlighting the severity of the ongoing conditions.
Authorities say the rationing schedule will remain in place as they track rainfall, reservoir levels and water demand.
Officials are urging residents to use water carefully while the island works through the drought.
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