PALIKIR, Pohnpei—Originally through voluminous reporting across social media, and subsequently through dialoguing with the Nation’s State Governments, the Government of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) has been made aware of extensive saltwater inundation across the Nation’s islands as a result of ongoing King Tides and storm surges. The Government has received numerous requests from citizens asking for support.
As of December 6th, 2021, the FSM National Government is communicating with the States of Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae, to determine the extent of any possible damage. As the flooding event is ongoing as of this release’s publication, it is plausible that such determination will occur after the event has concluded.
Supposing that the flooding constitutes a natural disaster, the first step following the flooding event would be for the relevant State Government to conduct an assessment of the damage. If a given State Government requires the assistance of the FSM National Government in such an assessment, then the State Government would formalize the request in a communication to the Office of the President.
Following the initial assessment, the FSM National Government would verify the assessment’s authenticity. From there, the Government would work to determine what relief efforts, if any, would be necessary.
Citizens affected by the ongoing flooding activity are encouraged to document the event extensively, both with photographs and in writing. Cataloging the damage and the effects as they occur will assist the State and National Government assessments following the event, and expedite the issuance of necessary assistance.
“We are watching what’s happening,” said His Excellency David W. Panuelo, President of the FSM, in a statement, “And, first and foremost, I would ask our citizens to feel assured that their Government is aware of what’s happening, and is ready to take action. We stand by to offer our full support to the State Governments when the requests come in, and I encourage the States to make these requests without any hesitation or reservation if they feel it’s necessary. Whether it’s construction supplies or food, we will never abandon our citizens to the existential threat of Climate Change.”
The FSM National Government will continue to monitor this situation as it develops.
