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Micronesia

Federated States of Micronesia - Drought - DREF Operational Update (MDRFM002)

Attachments

Description of the Event

Date when the trigger was met 2024-03-12

What happened, where and when?

In September 2023, El Niño was confirmed by the weather services, raising concerns for the upcoming months. The drying trend, which intensified from October to March, typically peaks after the El Niño confirmation. The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) rely on underground, surface water, and rainwater for freshwater supply. Particularly vulnerable are small, low-lying islands that rely 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 the lack of rain is causing rain catchment and river systems across the nation to run dry.

On 11 March 2024, the President of FSM signed the declaration of a State of Emergency in response to severe drought conditions across the country. However, it was publicly announced on the government site on 12 March 2024. The most affected states are Yap, Kosrae, Pohnpei, and Chuuk (Government of the Federated States of Micronesia). The total population of the four states is approximately 113,000, all of whom are directly or indirectly affected by the drought.

To streamline the coordination of relief supplies, the National Emergency Task Force has been established. As per the emergency declaration, an allocation of US$1,288,824 is designated for the Disaster Relief Fund. Furthermore, any goods procured for foreign aid projects related to the emergency will be exempt from import tax. Additionally, state authorities and agencies are encouraged to waive port charges, including wharfage, freight, and other associated fees, for the transportation of emergency-related relief equipment, supplies, and materials.