Chuuk, a state within the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), has a land area of 49 square miles and is composed of approximately 290 islands. It is also the most populous of the FSM states.
Chuuk's Geographical Footprint
Chuuk is characterized by its distinctive geography, which includes a collection of volcanic islands nestled within the expansive Chuuk Lagoon, complemented by a scattering of outer-island atolls. This unique composition contributes to its total island count and relatively modest land mass.
Key Size Metrics of Chuuk:
| Metric | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Land Area | 49 square miles | The total land mass of the state. |
| Total Islands | Approximately 290 | Includes volcanic islands and outer atolls. |
| Outer Atolls | Approximately 24 | Part of the total island count. |
| Population | 53,595 (est. 2000) | The most populous state in the FSM. |
Composition of Chuuk's Islands
The 290 islands that constitute Chuuk are not uniform. They are primarily divided into:
- Volcanic Islands within the Chuuk Lagoon: These islands form the core of the state, situated inside a large natural lagoon.
- Outer-Island Atolls: Scattered beyond the main lagoon, these are typically ring-shaped coral reefs enclosing a lagoon, with small islands on the reef. There are roughly 24 of these outer-island atolls.
This diverse collection of landforms makes Chuuk a significant geographical entity within the FSM, despite its compact land area. Its considerable population density for its size further underscores its importance within the region.
