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GEOGRAPHY
Location:
Oceania, island in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters
of the way from Hawaii to the Philippines
comparative
area: slightly more than three times the size of Washington,
DC
exclusive
economic zone: 200 nm
International
disputes: none
Climate:
tropical marine; generally warm and humid, moderated by northeast
trade winds; dry season from January to June, rainy season from
July to December; little seasonal temperature variation
Terrain:
volcanic origin, surrounded by coral reefs; relatively flat coraline
limestone plateau (source of most fresh water) with steep coastal
cliffs and narrow coastal plains in north, low-rising hills in
center, mountains in south
Natural
resources: fishing (largely undeveloped), tourism (especially
from Japan)
meadows
and pastures: 15%
natural
hazards: frequent squalls during rainy season; relatively
rare, but potentially very destructive typhoons (especially in
August)
international
agreements: NA
Note:
largest and southernmost island in the Mariana Islands archipelago;
strategic location in western North Pacific Ocean
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