USVI and Puerto Rico to Remain Drought-Free Through December, But Excessive Rainfall Will Continue to Impact Agriculture

Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands are expected to remain drought-free through the remainder of the year, with wetter-than-normal conditions persisting across the Caribbean territories, according to a report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and the National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS). Tropical storms, including Ernesto, have brought significant rainfall, impacting agriculture and coastal waters, while the risk of drought remains low. The organizations said that Tropical Cyclone Ernesto, along with other weather systems, has delivered substantial rainfall to both Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands in recent months. As of September 17, 2024, both territories are drought-free, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. This continuous rainfall has replenished water reservoirs, kept soil saturated, and elevated stream levels. However, the heavy rains have not been without consequences. In Puerto Rico, July and August brought persis...