Landslides represent a significant global hazard affecting over 2 million people. In the decade from 2000 about 9500 deaths were reported. Mortality and injury occurs where the landslides are associated with habilitation on the slope or in the potential path of the debris flows. Some landslides follow a significant hydro-meteorological event.

Tropical Storm Chata'an struck Chuuk State on 2 July 2002 with 501.4 mm (almost 20 inches) of rainfall received over 24 hours on the north-west of Weno Island. This deluge, combined with 628 mm (almost 25 inches) of rainfall since 1 June, triggered 265 landslides. At least 62 massive landslides occurred on 2 July resulting in 43 deaths and hundreds of injuries on six islands. This impact of this event was exacerbated because although the population was familiar with weathering tropical storms, there had been no major landslides since 1976.

A survey of the local population found more than three-quarters of the population were unaware of other landslides associated with TS Chata'an before being affected themselves, and that landslides could accompany tropical storms. To address the above, workshops relating to landslide and typhoon preparedness are being pursued aggressively in FSM. Better prediction of landslides is also being investigated.

Overall, a better understanding of the mechanics of landslides will assist communities to reduce their risk. This is essential as the frequency and intensity of extreme rainfall in FSM is projected to increase in the future.  This is of concern as most people live around steep mountains in Chuuk.