By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau (Sept. 7, 2026) — “With more fire incidents, resources are strained,” said Chief Jeff Eriich of the Division of Fire & Rescue, as Palau recorded 16 brush fires in August amid increasingly dry conditions linked to the severe El Niño. The growing number of fires is raising concerns among fire […]
Author Archives: Island Times
Posted inTop Stories
Palau’s Clean Air Tested as Haze Carries Smoke Across the Pacific
By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau — The haze hanging over Palau in recent weeks is an unusual sight in a country scientists describe as having some of the cleanest air on Earth — and new measurements are helping explain where the pollution came from. Haze covers the island of Koror, showing contrast against Ngetmeduch. Haze […]
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Palau Flags Lowered to Half-Staff to Honor Three National Leaders
By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau (Sept. 7, 2026) — Palau flags are being flown at half-staff across the country and at Palau’s embassies and consulates overseas to honor the lifelong service and legacy of three former and traditional leaders. Under presidential proclamations, flags will be lowered in recognition of former Minister of State Andres Uherbelau, […]
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UN sea-level rise report launched in Palau, calls for urgent action, stronger climate finance
By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau — “They should not be asked to surrender their land or their future because others failed to cut their emissions.” That message from United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed resonated strongly in Palau on Aug. 31 as the United Nations launched its report on sea-level rise at the Palau International […]
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Pacific Voyagers Seek Regional Recognition of Traditional Navigation as Living Heritage
By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau — “Although we are many nations, we remain one ocean people.” That message from Grand Master Navigator Ali Haleyalur captures the central argument behind a declaration urging Pacific leaders to recognize traditional navigation as a living cultural heritage of the Blue Pacific continent and make its preservation a regional priority. […]
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PICRC joins more than 40 other Global Organizations in support of Commitment to protect Climate-Resilient Coral Reefs
The Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) is proud to announce that they’ve joined more than 40 other global organizations and more than 20 governments in support of the world’s first global pledge to protect climate-resilient coral reefs. Officially called “Protecting Climate-Resilient Coral Reefs: A High-Level Global Commitment,” this pledge was launched by the Wildlife […]