Site of former British nuclear tests, the island was handed over to Kiribati on that country s independence. The island is a sanctuary to millions of sea birds and access to the breeding areas is prohibited. These Line Islands, together with Washington, belong to Kiribati and their local names have been confused, and are often wrongly depicted in nautical publications. Navigational aids are not very reliable and it is reported that most atolls are without lights after midnight. Most facilities available in Kiribati are concentrated on Tarawa which comprises several islands around a lagoon.
Water is often scarce and can be a problem in the southern and central parts of the group.
Weather Most islands have an equatorial climate, while the islands to the extreme north and south of the group are tropical. November to April is the rainy season, with high humidity and stronger winds. Rainfall is not reliable and drought can be a problem for all the islands. 2000-2001 Noonsite Ltd.