Rongelap

Rongelap is a small atoll in the Marshall Islands, located in the Ralik Chain, approximately 200 kilometers north of the equator. It is part of the Rongelap Atoll Municipality, which also includes the nearby atolls of Ailinglaplap and Wotho. The atoll is composed of a central lagoon surrounded by a coral reef, with a total land area of about 2.5 square kilometers. Rongelap is known for its rich biodiversity, including various species of fish, birds, and marine mammals. The atoll is also home to the Rongelap Atoll National Wildlife Refuge, which was established in 1981 to protect the unique ecosystems and wildlife of the area. The atoll has a population of around 1,500 people, who primarily engage in subsistence fishing and copra production. Rongelap is also known for its annual Rongelap Atoll Festival, which celebrates the island's culture and heritage. The atoll has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round and high humidity. The island is also prone to cyclones and other natural disasters, which can pose a threat to the local population and infrastructure. Despite these challenges, Rongelap remains an important cultural and ecological site in the Marshall Islands.