Story
August 1, 2024
The State of Yap Receives Some Reprieve With Rainfall After Months of Severe Drought
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Ulithi Atoll's Fight
Pacific communities are embracing tradition and working with scientists to protect their ecosystems.
In March, the President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Wesley Simina, declared a State of Emergency due to an ongoing and severe drought.
For months, The State of Yap, especially its outer islands, has been the hardest hit. Thankfully they've seen some rain in recent weeks, but abnormally dry conditions remain in parts.
We heard from ABC Science journalist Carl Smith, who has been in FSM, supported by the Pulitzer Center. He talked to community members on mainland Yap and the remote Ulithi atoll about what this prolonged drought has been like for them and what it means for their future. Listen to Smith in the audio link above, beginning at 24:45.
Also in the program, we checked in with PNG journalist Scott Waide and heard from Pacific Beat's Evan Wasuka on the Pacific stories that are making headlines this week.
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