PRASA reassigns Carolina communities to new water interruption zone

By THE STAR STAFF

The Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA) announced operational changes to its Scheduled Interruption Plan for the Sergio Cuevas Filtration Plant, shifting two Carolina communities—Escorial and Jardines de Carolina—from Zone 2 to Zone 1 beginning Monday, August 17.

The adjustment affects 3,081 customers, including 2,639 in Escorial and 442 in Jardines de Carolina, according to José A. Rivera Ortiz, director of AAA’s Metro Region.

ASA officials said the change is intended to improve the speed and consistency of water service recovery during scheduled cycles. By moving both communities into Zone 1, their service and interruption periods will now follow the timelines assigned to that zone.

Rivera Ortiz explained that the decision followed an operational review of how the system responds during each cycle. The analysis showed that, due to the configuration of the distribution network and the way pressure and water levels recover, both communities can be served more effectively as part of Zone 1.

“The cycles we’ve completed allow us to evaluate how the system responds and make adjustments where needed,” Rivera Ortiz said. “In the case of Escorial and Jardines de Carolina, this change will help improve the recovery process for the 3,081 customers in these communities.”

PRASA noted that water service restoration during the 48‑hour “on” period is gradual. Tunnels, tanks, and distribution components must refill and stabilize before water reaches all sectors. Customers in higher elevations or areas farther from the main network may experience longer recovery times.

Rivera Ortiz emphasized that zone adjustments are normal during the implementation of scheduled interruption plans. “As we evaluate system behavior, we make the operational changes needed to improve recovery and distribution. Our goal is always to restore service as quickly as possible and minimize the impact on communities.”

PRASA will continue monitoring the system and will announce any additional changes through its official channels. The agency urged residents to use water responsibly once service is restored, prioritizing essential needs and avoiding unnecessary consumption to help stabilize supply across all affected areas.

Residents can find updated information on interruption zones and schedules at acueductos.pr.gov and on social media under @AcueductosPR.