Story perspectives
U.S. Declares Puerto Rico Drought Disaster, Unlocking Relief Loans
8/27/2026
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Story summary
- The U.S. government declared a drought disaster for Puerto Rico, affecting 26 municipalities.
- Extreme drought covers over 33% of Puerto Rico, with severe drought affecting an additional 30%.
- July recorded the driest month in San Juan in over 120 years and the second hottest.
- Agriculture Secretary Irving Rodríguez said the declaration enables farmers to obtain emergency loans.
