Puerto Rico implements water rationing amid severe drought

Hot weather combined with ageing infrastructure has forced authorities to impose rationing measures that now affect hundreds of thousands of residents. The surge in temperature has driven up demand for essential services, while the deteriorating condition of pipes, grids and treatment facilities has limited the system’s capacity to meet that demand.

In response, officials have introduced scheduled cut‑offs and reduced supply quotas, prioritising critical sectors such as hospitals and emergency services. Consumers are being advised to conserve usage during peak periods, and repair crews are accelerating maintenance programs to mitigate further disruptions. The temporary restrictions are expected to remain in place until weather conditions stabilize and infrastructure upgrades are completed.