ANNOUNCEMENT:Office of Planning & Budget - Public Advisory Update

Water Discoloration and Fish Mortality Reports in Yap State Outer Islands

Issued Jointly by the Disaster Coordination Office (DCO), Yap Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Department of Resources and Development’s Division of Marine Resources Management (MRMD), and Department of Health Services (DHS)

Date: June 30, 2026

Current Situation

On June 26, 2026, Yap EPA, Marine Resources Management Division (MRMD), the Department of Health Services (DHS), and the Disaster Coordinator met with technical experts to review recent reports of water discoloration and fish deaths in several outer islands.

Reports of reddish-brown water and dead fish were first reported in Lamotrek. Since then, fish deaths have also been reported in Satawal, Fechailap, Elato, Ifalik, Eauripik, and Fais.

Based on observations received to date, a Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB), sometimes referred to as a "red tide," remains a possible cause of these events. Harmful algal blooms are natural occurrences that can affect water quality and marine life by reducing oxygen levels in the water or producing substances that may be harmful to fish and other marine organisms.

Ongoing Response

Yap State agencies are continuing to assess the situation and gather information from affected communities. Current response activities include:

• Collecting reports and observations from communities.

• Conducting community assessments to better understand the extent of impacts.

• Working with technical experts to identify the most effective sampling methods and priority areas for investigation.

• As advised by technical experts, specialized sampling kits will be assembled to improve the collection of water and marine life samples. This will help increase the likelihood of obtaining the information needed to better understand the cause of the water discoloration and fish mortality.

• Monitoring conditions and reviewing new information as it becomes available.

Public Health and Safety Precautions

As a precaution, residents are advised to:

• Do not consume dead, dying, or distressed fish and other marine life found floating in the water or washed ashore.

• Avoid swimming or direct contact with water that appears discolored.

• Exercise caution when harvesting marine resources from areas where fish mortality or unusual water conditions have been observed.

• Report any new sightings of water discoloration, fish mortality, or other unusual marine conditions to your local community leaders or health assistants on the island.

Continuing Updates

Yap State agencies will continue to monitor the situation and provide additional information as findings become available. Community members are encouraged to stay informed through official government announcements and advisories.

Reporting Information

To report discolored water, fish kills, or other unusual marine conditions, please contact local community leaders or health assistants on island for them to report to the DCO office or MRMD office.

Disaster Coordinator Office

350-2166

Marine Resources Management Division (MRMD)

350-2350 / 4677

Kammagar & Thank You