Drought eases in Puerto Rico

By THE STAR STAFF

The extent of the drought in Puerto Rico decreased over the past week, dropping from 75.2% to 69.1% of the territory, according to the latest update from the U.S. Drought Monitor, based on data valid as of Tuesday, Sept. 8.

The report shows that extreme drought also receded and now affects 39.5% of Puerto Rico, down from the 41% recorded the previous week. Severe drought decreased from 21.3% to 18.3% of the territory.

Moderate drought currently covers 11.3% of the island, while another 10.5% remains under abnormally dry conditions. No part of Puerto Rico is currently experiencing exceptional drought, the most intense category used by the Drought Monitor.

The latest map shows extreme drought concentrated across a broad swath of southern Puerto Rico, as well as in parts of the east and northeast. Vieques and Culebra also remain in this category, while conditions are less severe toward the center, north and west of the island.

This week’s reduction marks an improvement in overall drought coverage, although more than two-thirds of Puerto Rico remains under one of the drought categories ranging from moderate to extreme.

The Drought Monitor’s assessments are updated weekly based on the best available data and local observations.