During April, the frequency of tradewinds decreases, and there is an increase in the frequency of east winds.  In May, the winds are predominantly from southeast to northeast [4].  Palau is outside the typhoon belt and is therefore less likely to experience typhoons compared to other places in Micronesia [2]; however, typhoons can happen from June to December.

There are several areas of general environmental concern, including illegal fishing and overharvesting, inadequate facilities for disposal of solid waste in Koror, along with the handling of toxic waste from fertilizers and biocides, and extensive sand and coral dredging in the Palau lagoon [1, 5]. In the last decade, major environmental problems and threats related to climate change has drastically increased. As a result of warming sea surface temperature in 1997 and 1998, mass coral bleaching event occurred.  Approximately one-third of Palau’s corals died, with coral mortality as high as 90% in some areas [2]. This had severe, adverse impacts on its important marine tourism industry. Sea level rise of low-lying areas is a threat to coastal vegetation, agriculture, and the purity of the nation's water supply. Palau already has a problem with inadequate water supply and limited agricultural areas to support the size of the population. The nation is also vulnerable to earthquakes and volcanic activities [5].

Recognizing its dependence on climate sensitive sectors, Palau has participated in climate assessments and developed adaptation strategies to address risks that have been used in national communications and international negotiations.  In addition, Palau has taken proactive conservation measures to protect coastal and marine resources, including implementing permit fees and visitor limits for frequented areas, placing a moratorium on mangrove clearing to protect coastal habitat, and developing marine protected areas to preserve fisheries habitat and resources. (See Stakeholder Dialogue, Republic of Palau, May 1-2, 2006).