Puerto Rico Implements Water Rationing for 500,000 Residents

Governor Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon authorized a rotating water rationing program starting August 8, 2026, affecting approximately 500,000 people across seven municipalities, including San Juan. Residents will alternate between 48 hours of water service and 48 hours without. The measure follows a severe drought that left 68% of the island affected and resulted in the driest July on record for the capital.

Gonzalez-Colon stated the rationing is necessary to prevent the island from running out of water entirely, attributing the crisis to climate conditions that are "out of our hands." The situation is exacerbated by failing infrastructure, with government reports indicating that leaky pipes cause the loss of over half the water supply.

To mitigate the impact, the government is utilizing emergency funding and the National Guard of Puerto Rico to distribute drinking water and cisterns. The Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority is deploying water trucks to priority facilities. While the current schedule is set through August, officials warned that cuts may become more drastic if rainfall does not increase, as forecasts predict a 70% chance of below-normal rainfall and above-normal heat through October.