Puerto Rico is facing water rationing in San Juan due to an intense drought. This development is causing concern among American tourists visiting the Caribbean island. The Associated Press reports that over 180,000 water customers will experience 48-hour water outages on a rotating schedule starting Friday.

San Juan experienced its driest July in over 120 years, paired with its second-hottest month on record. The U.S. Drought Monitor indicates almost 25% of Puerto Rico is under severe drought conditions, with an additional 36% experiencing moderate drought, according to the AP.

Impact on Tourists

The drought situation worries some tourists about their planned trips to the island. A Reddit forum dedicated to Puerto Rico travel showcased a tourist voicing concerns. Although the tourist’s hotel had an emergency water supply, doubts about the shortage lingered.

Can someone please be realistic about what it’d be like to visit during this? Will it affect restaurants and bars? Should we cancel even though we likely won’t get anything refunded?

Responses varied, with one user noting, “Hotels have cisterns and generators. However, you should prepare to be flexible in your outlook, as it is a crisis.” Another mentioned, “Hotels are probably the ones less affected by all of this. Businesses and restaurants will definitely have to adjust, like they’ve had to in the past.”

Mixed Reactions from Tourists

While some were less concerned, stating, “Biggest issues you’ll encounter are no ice in drinks, or car washes available.” Others made the decision to cancel plans, “We didn’t feel good about going and canceled our trip.”

The original Reddit user later updated the post, confirming the cancellation due to ongoing worries, We got refunds on some things, not others, and hope to be back another time.

Other Water-Related Travel Advisories

Water-related advisories have also impacted travelers in other destinations. Earlier this year, Hawaii issued multiple brown water advisories following a storm. Concerns arose over heavy rain runoff carrying harmful substances into the ocean, creating risks of E. coli and salmonella contamination.

The Hawaii Department of Health Clean Water Branch advised, If the water is brown, turn around.

In Puerto Rico, more than 180,000 water customers are expected to face the 48-hour outage rotation during this rationing period.