Like most Pacific Island nations, Palau has low water reserves and relies heavily on regular precipitation to recharge its water stores. Considerable uncertainty surrounds future projections of precipitation change. Models suggest that increases in the intensity of extreme hydrological events are most likely. Palau’s economy, food production, and public health are highly vulnerable to such events. Palau is prioritizing its disaster risk reduction, preparedness and response to drought and intense rainfall events, while underscoring the need for further research into the development of more consistent downscaled climate and hydrological models.

This section provides insights into projected climate change impacts on various hydrological indicators.