Drought - Federated States of Micronesia: Humanitarian Response Activities Reported (As of 17 May 2024)

SITUATION OVERVIEW

In September 2023, the official declaration of El Niño in FSM (approx. population 102,000) heightened concerns that the country will experience a serious water shortage in the months to come. FSM depends on underground, surface water, and rainwater for freshwater supply. Particularly vulnerable are small, low-lying islands reliant solely on rainwater and shallow wells. Historical records reveal that previous El Niño years resulted in drought conditions during winter and spring. The impact of lack of rain is causing rain catchment and river systems across the country to run dry. The most affected states are Yap, Pohnpei and Chuuk. On 11 March, the President declared a State of Emergency in response to severe drought conditions across the country. The declaration includes commitment of national resources to supplement foreign and domestic aid; establishment of a National Emergency Task Force to coordinate relief efforts, especially in the vulnerable outer islands; replenishment of the disaster relief fund; and coordination with state authorities and humanitarian partners for an effective response. The Department of Environment, Climate Change, and Emergency Management (DECEM) reports that the drought has impacted approximately 22,700 people – about 20 per cent of FSM population.