Decoding the Geographic Mystery- Where is Howland Island Geographically Situated-
Where is Howland Island Located?
Howland Island, a small and remote island in the central Pacific Ocean, is located in a part of the world known for its vastness and isolation. This unincorporated territory of the United States is situated approximately 1,850 miles southwest of Hawaii and 1,300 miles northeast of Australia. Covering an area of just 2.7 square miles, Howland Island is one of the most remote inhabited islands in the world. Its coordinates are 6° 45′ N latitude and 171° 10′ W longitude. Despite its small size, the island holds significant historical and ecological importance. Let’s delve into more details about its location and the surrounding region.
Howland Island is part of the Line Islands, a group of eight equatorial islands that stretch across the central Pacific Ocean. The other islands in this group include Baker Island, Jarvis Island, Kingman Reef, Palmyra Atoll, Wake Island, and the more famous Midway Atoll. These islands are located in the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument, which is a protected area that encompasses approximately 4.9 million square miles of ocean and islands.
The nearest populated landmasses to Howland Island are the Marquesas Islands, which are part of French Polynesia, and the Gilbert Islands, which are part of Kiribati. These islands are located approximately 1,200 miles to the east and 1,400 miles to the west, respectively. The distance from Howland Island to the nearest major city, Honolulu, Hawaii, is roughly 1,850 miles.
The island itself is a coral atoll with a raised central island, known as the “island proper,” and a surrounding lagoon. The island’s terrain is flat and low-lying, with elevations rarely exceeding 10 feet above sea level. The central island is home to a small military installation and a weather station, which are operated by the United States.
The unique location of Howland Island has made it a significant point of interest for various historical events. It is most famous for being the site of the crash of Amelia Earhart’s airplane in 1937 during her attempt to fly around the world. The exact location of the crash site remains a mystery, and the island has become a focal point for Earhart enthusiasts and researchers.
In addition to its historical significance, Howland Island is also of ecological importance. The island is home to a variety of bird species, including the endangered Phoenix petrel, and is a nesting site for marine turtles. The surrounding waters are also rich in marine life, making it a valuable research area for scientists studying oceanography and marine biology.
In conclusion, Howland Island is a remote and isolated island located in the central Pacific Ocean, near the equator. Its strategic position in the Line Islands group and its ecological and historical significance make it a unique and intriguing part of the world. Despite its small size, Howland Island holds a significant place in the global community and continues to be a subject of interest for researchers, historians, and nature enthusiasts alike.
