Drought Information Statement for Micronesia 
Valid January 5, 2024
Issued By: WFO Guam
Contact Information:  nws.gum.operations@noaa.gov

This product will be updated January 19, 2024 or sooner if drought conditions change significantly.  
Please see all currently available products at https://drought.gov/drought-information-statements.
Please visit https://www.weather.gov/gum/DroughtInformationStatement for previous statements. 
Photo courtesy FSM Adaptation Fund

1

U.S. Drought Monitor
Drought is expanding across Micronesia

Drought Intensity

D2 (Severe Drought): Ulithi and nearby islands of Yap State

D1 (Moderate Drought): 
Yap Proper
Wotje and nearby islands of the Republic of the Marshall Islands

D0: (Abnormally Dry):
Pohnpei State: Pohnpei, Pingelap, Nukuoro and nearby islands
Chuuk State: Lukunor and nearby islands

Rainfall During the Last 30 Days
Satellite and rain gauge data show a large swath of drier than normal conditions across much of Micronesia during the last 30 days.

Wetter than normal conditions have anchored the dateline along the equator, including portions of the southern Marshall Islands. This is consistent with El Niño.



Summary of Impacts
Hydrologic Impacts 
Water catchment levels are likely low on some islands. Water shortages are possible for communities that rely on well water.

Agricultural Impacts
There are no known impacts at this time.

Mitigation Actions
Water conservation measures are highly encouraged as both dry season and the dry phase of El Niño continue to spread across the region.

Preparedness Actions
Residents should report agricultural and hydrologic impacts to local DCOs and WSOs. Reports from the islands are critical for decision-making and government responses. 

Drought Outlook
The ongoing El Niño will likely lead to worsening drought across much of Micronesia during the next several months

Previous strong to very strong El Niño events have led to widespread, impactful droughts across Micronesia
It is important to note that the current El Niño has evolved differently than other strong to very strong El Niño events of the past. While this increases the uncertainty as to how widespread and impactful drought will be, islands should prepare for a drier than normal dry season and worsening drought