The U.S. government has declared a drought disaster in the U.S. Virgin Islands as dry conditions persist.
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix are all experiencing an extreme drought.
The declaration announced Thursday will allow farmers and agricultural producers to seek federal emergency loans.
The deepening drought also has affected neighbouring Puerto Rico.
Officials recently implemented water rationing measures for neighbourhoods in seven cities, including San Juan, the island’s capital.
More than 33% of Puerto Rico is under extreme drought, and another 30% under a severe drought.
