Low streamflow, low soil moisture, and dry conditions for the last 1-3 months, plus an increase in grass fires, prompted expansion of abnormal dryness and moderate drought in Puerto Rico.

The U.S. Virgin Islands remained on the dry side for another week. St. Croix only received 0.18 inches of rain this week, and groundwater levels continued to recede in the past few weeks, resulting in extreme short- and long-term drought. On St. Thomas, only 0.04 inches of rain was reported at Cyril E. King Airport, and groundwater continued to recede this week. Long-term abnormal dryness continued as long-term precipitation deficits continued. Moderate short- and long-term drought prevailed this week. St. John was similarly dry this week. Only 0.19 inches of rain at Windswept Beach was observed this week, and groundwater levels continued to slowly drop in the past few weeks. This resulted in moderate short- and long-term drought conditions over the island.

Full Summary