US government declares drought disaster for US Virgin Islands
Summary
The U.S. government declared a drought disaster in the U.S. Virgin Islands due to ongoing dry conditions. This declaration allows farmers to apply for federal emergency loans to help them cope with the drought. Neighboring Puerto Rico is also experiencing drought and has started water rationing in some areas.Key Facts
- The U.S. Virgin Islands are experiencing an extreme drought on St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix.
- The federal drought disaster declaration helps farmers access emergency loans.
- U.S. Virgin Islands Governor Albert Bryan Jr. requested the disaster declaration earlier in June 2024.
- The drought affects food security and the local economy in the Virgin Islands.
- Puerto Rico is also facing drought, with water rationing in seven cities including San Juan.
- Over 33% of Puerto Rico is under extreme drought and about 30% under severe drought.
- Experts link the dry conditions to a strong El Niño weather pattern.
- The strong El Niño has also caused a weaker Atlantic hurricane season this year.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
