The ninety-minute presentation reviewed the current “strong” El Niño conditions, typhoon, rainfall, and sea level activity during prior El Niño systems, and predictions for sea level, typhoons and rainfall for 2010.
On Feb. 10-11, Guard traveled to Pohnpei State to conduct similar presentations for the FSM National Office of Environment and Emergency Management and Pohnpei State Disaster Coordinators.
During his briefings, Guard warned of very dry conditions in Chuuk and Pohnpei States for the next three to four months. Experts do not expect the drought to be as severe as in 1983 and 1998, but will closely monitor rainfall for the foreseeable future. Rainfall will not be as heavy, as frequent, or as long in duration as normal.
Guard urged all main and outer islands to conserve fresh water resources as much as possible. Residents are encouraged to catch as much rain as possible and to conserve it for drinking water, and some delivery of drinking water may be needed before the dry period is over.
Guard indicated that heavier rains should return to Chuuk and Pohnpei by June.
During his visit to Chuuk, Guard organized a seminar for twenty-three science students from the College of Micronesia’s Chuuk Campus. The topics included the causes of weather in Chuuk State, El Niño, and Climate Change and its likely impacts for Chuuk. He also provided some surf observation training at the Chuuk Weather Station.
In addition to weather forecasts, severe storm warnings, and climate monitoring, NOAA conducts fisheries management, coastal restoration and marine commerce support.
The agency provides accurate and timely information on oceanic and atmospheric issues.
NOAA is considered an international leader on scientific and environmental matters.
Its mission is to understand and predict changes in Earth’s environment and conserve and manage coastal and marine resources.
NOAA also performs outreach such as the meetings in Chuuk and Pohnpei to promote an understanding of the ocean, coasts, and atmosphere.
