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Drought intensifies across much of Micronesia
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Posted on Apr 17 2020
The National Weather Service in Guam issued an advisory yesterday that drought conditions continue to persist across a large area of far western Micronesia, which includes Yap state, the Republic of Palau, and, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands.
The advisory states that a drier than normal trade-wind pattern “has persisted across much of Micronesia the past few months. Although the synoptic pattern has been typical for this time of year and ENSO-neutral conditions prevail, rainfall has been inadequate for many islands. This has been primarily due to a fairly weak intertropical convergent zone that has been largely confined to areas east of 150E. Additionally, anomalously warm water has persisted near the dateline the past several months. This warmer than normal water has encouraged convection near the dateline and suppressed convection farther west over much of Micronesia, especially far western Micronesia.”
So far, no official water conservation measures are in effect in the Marianas. Saipan is most susceptible for impacted groundwater, but officials report water levels are still above thresholds for concern.
“All guidance points to continued dry weather with only a few weak disturbances providing a few showers at times. The National Multi-Model Ensemble continues to suggest drier than normal weather will continue for the next month or two. This is consistent with the synoptic pattern.” The Marianas can expect 0.5 to 1.5 inches during the next 10 days.
Visit the following links for the latest advisory information:
– CNMI EOC State Warning Point Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cnmieocswp/
– CNMI Office of the Governor Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CNMIGov/
– Governor Ralph DLG. Torres Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ralphdlg.torres/
– CNMI Joint Information Center: https://www.facebook.com/JICNMI/
Homeland Security and Emergency Management also encourages residents to download HSEM’s readyCNMI App available for free in the Apple Store or Google PlayStore to receive the latest weather updates and notifications.
For more information, contact the CNMI EOC State Warning Point at 237-8000 or 664-8000. (PR)
