Extreme drought conditions are continuing in the Republic of Palau.

As mentioned in the Declaration of a State of Emergency ordered March 22, 2016, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency (NOAA) weather report dated March 21, 2016 states that cumulative rainfall over the past 4 months hit record low ever since 1951 with Koror now in a state of Extreme Drought (Drought Level 3 of 4), and below average rainfall projected for the next 2-3 months. With regards to water sources for the Koror-Airai system, Ngerimel Dam has been shutdown, and Ngerikiil River below 19% of normal production.

Water rationing procedures are taking place with 3 hours of water each morning and evening.

Areas outside Koror and Airai are also experiencing dangerously low water levels and are in water-rationing schedules as well.

Health conditions, wildfire, and securing water for the cooling mechanism for the  electrical power plant are grounds of concern.

Lastly, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Government of Japan made a press release regarding emergency assistance as can be seen from the link below.

http://www.mofa.go.jp/press/release/press4e_001106.html

Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan

We will continue to provide follow-up reports.