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Difference between revisions of "Physical Environment: Gabal"

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''This page is a section of [[Gabal]].''[[File:Ariana.png|thumb|Ariana]]
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''This page is a section of [[Gabal]].''
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Over 200,000 square miles comprise the Caucasus, a mountainous region located between the Black Sea and Caspian Sea. The Caucasus includes [[Atropia]], [[Limaria]], and [[Gorgas]], as well as parts of [[Ariana]], [[Donovia]], and Kalaria. The Caucasus Mountains, consisting of the Greater and Lesser Caucasus ranges, traditionally form the separation between Europe and Asia. The Caucasus region contains two major parts—the North Caucasus and the South Caucasus—that are divided by the Greater Caucasus Mountains. The North Caucasus region is contained entirely within Donovia, while the South Caucasus contains Gorgas, Limaria, Atropia, and parts of Ariana and Kalaria.  
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Gabal is a small country located in an archipelago in the western Pacific Ocean. It borders Belesia and South Torbia—with whom it has friendly relations. The country’s terrain consists primary of forested mountains and low grassy valleys. Both vegetation and climate are tropical in nature. Multiple natural hazards exist, resulting from the country’s geology, weather, native wildlife, and human activity.  
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{| class="wikitable"
 +
!'''Measure'''
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!'''Data'''
 +
!'''Remarks'''
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|-
 +
|'''Land Area (sq miles)'''
 +
|605
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|Busuanga (369), Culion (152), Coron (28); Includes inland water
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|-
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|'''Land Border (miles)'''
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|0
 +
|Island group
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|-
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|'''Coastline (miles)'''
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|775
 +
| 
 +
|-
 +
|'''Highest Elevation (ft)'''
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|2,041
 +
|Mount Tundalara
 +
|-
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|'''Lowest Elevation (ft)'''
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|0
 +
|Sea Level
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|-
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|'''Arable (cultivated) Land (%)'''
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|10
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|Primarily southern Culion
 +
|-
 +
|'''Permanent Crops (%)'''
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|<1
 +
| 
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|-
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|'''Permanent Pasture (%)'''
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|<1
 +
|36% grasslands that could be used for pastoral purposes
 +
|-
 +
|'''Irrigated Land (%)'''
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|<1
 +
| 
 +
|-
 +
|'''Forested Land (%)'''
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|52
 +
| 
 +
|-
 +
|'''Urban Area (%)'''
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|<1
 +
| 
 +
|}
  
 
== Terrain ==
 
== Terrain ==
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Mountains and deserts form the majority of Ariana. A high plateau with vast sand deserts  dominates eastern Ariana. High mountains such as the Zagros and Elburz mountain ranges encompass most of north-central, western, and southwestern parts of the country.
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Gabal possesses 605 square miles of territory in southeastern Asia. Consisting of a group of more than 70 islands and islets, Gabal is part of a larger archipelago bounded by the Philippine Sea—part of the western Pacific Ocean—to the east, the South China Sea to the west, and the Celebes Sea to the south. The country shares only maritime borders with its neighbors, which include South Torbia to the northeast and Belesia to the southeast and southwest. The islands are mountainous in nature, with interspersed valleys on the larger islands.
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[[File:Topography of Ariana.png|thumb|Topography of Ariana]]
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Gabal can be broken into three primary island groups centered around the largest islands: Busuanga, Culion, and Coron. Busuanga, the largest island, lies in the country’s north and covers 369 square miles. The island consists primarily of long, narrow mountain ranges separated by narrow valleys. Two larger valleys exist; one on the northeastern end of the island, and one along the northern shore of the island’s southern half. Culion Island lies in the southwest and, at 152 square miles, is the country’s second-largest island. Though also covered by mountains and valleys, the terrain does not form a distinctive pattern like it does on Busuanga. Coron is the third-largest island (28 sq miles), and is considered sacred by Gabalian tribesmen. Roughly triangular in shape, it consists of mountain plateaus on the north, west, and south, and a flat valley in the east; its most notable feature is Cabugao Lake, which lies in the center of the island.[[File:Topography of Ariana.png|thumb|Topography of Ariana]]
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Ariana’s total land area is 588,764 square miles located between two major depressions, with the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman to the south and the Caspian Sea to the north. The rocky terrain located along most of Ariana’s borders extends well into the nation’s interior, making Ariana one of the world’s most mountainous countries. Ariana’s topography contains three principal regions: the mountain ranges, the primarily coastal lowlands, and the Arianian Plateau (also referred to as the Central Plateau).
 
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== Bodies of Water ==
 
== Bodies of Water ==
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Out of Ariana’s 633,783 total square miles, water constitutes only a little over 45,000 square miles – most of which lies in the Caspian Sea or the southern gulfs. Major Arianian rivers include the Karun, the Sefid-Rud, the Haraz, the Qom, the Aras, and the Zayandeh. The Karun River, located  in southwest Ariana, represents Ariana’s longest and only navigable river, and runs 515 miles through the country. The Aras River, located in the far northwest, runs along much of the border between Ariana and its northern neighbors of Limaria and Atropia. Lake Urmia represents Ariana’s and the Middle East’s largest lake and the world’s third largest salt lake. Located in northwestern Ariana near Kalaria, it covers an area that varies from 2,000 to 3,000 square miles.
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As an island nation, Gabal is surrounded by bodies of water on all sides. The South China Sea lies to its northwest, and the Sulu Sea to its southeast. The Mindoro Strait separates the country from South Torbia in the northeast, and the narrower Linapacan Strait separates it from Belesia in the southwest. The islands possess multiple bays, harbors, anchorages, and lagoons. The largest of these, Coron Bay, is sheltered by the three main island groups: Coron on the east, Busuanga on the north, and Culion on the west. The bay is famous for its shipwrecks from World War II, and is a popular diving location for tourists. Inland waters include a few rivers on Culion and Busuanga Islands, with some being navigable near their mouths by shallow-draft vessels. and a series of lakes on Coron Island. Cabugao Lake is the largest, covering a surface area of 1.56 square miles (1,001 acres), while Kayangan Lake is believed to be the cleanest lake in the entire region. Underwater caves are also present in the archipelago, and are popular tourist attractions.
  
 
== Mobility Classification ==
 
== Mobility Classification ==
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Ariana’s rugged terrain favors the defender, and the military will generally find the country ill- suited to armored or mechanized operations, particularly in the coastal regions. Travelers can only access most high basin areas through winding, narrow mountain passes.
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Movement in Gabal is difficult due to the mountainous island nature of the country. Water transport methods are required between islands and, once on land, the mountain ranges naturally canalize movement. Heavy rains, flooding, and mud/landslides can seriously hamper troop movement during the rainy season. The presence of forests in the higher mountains increases difficulties and provides cover for enemy forces and smugglers, while multiple rivers and streams challenge mechanized and motorized movement. Air operation impediments include mountain ranges, forests, steep valleys and gorges, and cyclonic storms.
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Ariana’s desert and mountains will complicate cross-country movement. The Zagros Mountains in the western half of the country prohibit vehicular travel. Equipment and vehicles will get stuck in muddy areas created at the base of the mountains by snow melt and spring rains. In heavy rains, southwestern Ariana’s marshlands and rivers can flood and bring ground movement to a halt. The rugged mountains, due to their location, are an excellent place for smugglers of drugs, weapons, and fighters. The mountainous terrain will make vehicle breakdowns and tire changes a daily  occurrence.
 
  
 
== Natural Hazards ==
 
== Natural Hazards ==
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The most common natural hazards in Ariana include dust and sand storms, mirages, and earthquakes. The frequency and severity of dust and sand storms in Ariana depend on surface wind strength and topography. The Dastet Plain in the southwest often develops dust storms due to its soil. The southern coast, inland desert, and semi-desert areas remain subject to sand storms. Dust and sand storms occur in the interior for an average of five to ten days monthly. In winter, cold  fronts or thunderstorms lift these storms over wide, dry areas. In summer, the most severe dust and sand storms occur in the heat of the day and make any type of travel impossible. The storms can  even eliminate visibility. Dust and sand storms mostly occur in the spring and summer seasons, and people will stay inside unless absolutely necessary and wear a mask while outdoors.
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Gabal is subject to many types of natural disasters, including tropical cyclones, flash floods, land and mudslides, and tsunamis. Mountainous areas and those cleared of vegetation are most prone to land and mudslides, while the coastal areas are more likely to be affected by tsunamis and storm surges. The region experiences frequent earthquakes and, while Gabal rarely lies at the epicenter, it is not exempt from the effects. Cyclonic storms hit regularly, with an average of one storm a year reaching typhoon category. One of these, Super Typhoon Haiyan, left hundreds of Gabalians dead in its wake in 2013. The country is also concerned about possible rising sea levels due to climate change. Dangerous animals in the country include poisonous caterpillars, centipedes, crocodiles, poisonous frogs, jellyfish, scorpions, sharks, snakes, and spiders.
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Mirages accompany aridity and heat in the flat interior and southern parts of Ariana. Mirages pose no threat to aerial observation due to the  mirage’s moderate intensity of 16 to 33 feet. On the  ground, however, mirages pose an obstacle to ground visibility as the outlines of objects become obscured. Mirages interfere with depth perception as they make objects appear closer to the eye.
 
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Ariana, with its massive mountain ranges, finds itself at the center of an active earthquake zone, with the most vulnerable zone in the northwest. In the last two decades of the 20th century, at least 1,000 measureable earthquakes hit northwestern Ariana. On average, Ariana suffers about 100 earthquakes in any given year. Also on average, Ariana has received at least one earthquake of magnitude equal or greater than 6.0 on the Richter scale in every year for the last century. The frequency of serious earthquakes in northwest Ariana puts the approximately 12 million people in the urban area of Tehran in an extremely vulnerable position. Experts contend that if a major earthquake hit Tehran, thousands or perhaps tens of thousands would die. Most of these people live in poorly-built high-rise apartments or cheaply constructed mud-brick buildings.
 
  
 
== Subterranean Environment ==
 
== Subterranean Environment ==
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Ariana, well aware of the surveillance capabilities of its enemies, has developed a significant subterranean environment to combat this capability. This environment includes networks, tunnels, and facilities that support government-regulated, primarily military activities and illicit criminal activities.
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The islands are full of caves, both above and below sea level. In addition to the multitude of naturally-occurring caves, mining on the islands has produced networks of tunnels. Many of these were abandoned as the chromite was exhausted, and are now used by occasionally by smugglers for storing illegal contraband. The higher-level tunnels are also used as emergency shelters by local residents during and after larger cyclonic storms.
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It is assessed that the underground facilities (UGFs) managed by the Arianian government support national missile and nuclear enrichment and development programs. Due to the sensitive nature of these programs, much of activities associated with them are conducted in the UGFs to provide protection from enemy detection and destruction. It is likely that the most important UGFs associated with the government are located at Qom, Isfahan, and Natanz.
 
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There is also a significant network of underground tunnels created and used by the God’s Helpers Brigade, an insurgent group that has been opposing leaders for nearly two decades in southeast Ariana. The extensive tunnel system being utilized by this group was created to facilitate in the movement of personnel and supplies in order to evade capture by Arianian government forces.
 
  
 
== Vegetation ==
 
== Vegetation ==
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Around 52% of Gabal is forested, primarily consisting of rain forest in the upper elevations of the mountains and on Coron Island. Most trees are broadleaf varieties such as balau, meranti, and narra; other plant species found in montane forests—such as bamboo, ferns, orchids, and climbing palms (rattan)—are also present. Due to the country’s climate, trees keep their leaves year round. A considerable number of Culion’s valleys—primarily in the island’s south—are devoted to agriculture. Those areas that are not forested or cultivated are covered by tropical savannahs, mixed grasslands, and scrub trees. Small mangrove swamps can be found on the coastline. The country has made a concerted effort to reverse a decades-long deforestation trend in recent years, and is slowly seeing results in this area.
  
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=== Land Cover ===
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== Agriculture ==
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Except for the lush forests that cover the Elburz Mountains’ northern slopes, Ariana contains few forested areas. The deserts in central Ariana receive only a few inches of rain annually, and the  scant moisture does not allow soil formation or much vegetation growth. The most common vegetation patterns in the Caspian Sea coastal region include thorny shrubs and ferns; broad-leaf deciduous trees such as oak and beech, and a few broad-leaf evergreens. In the Zagros Mountains, semi-humid oak forests grow along with elm and maple trees. Thin strands of juniper, almond, and wild fruit trees are found in the semi-dry plateau. Grasses and thorny shrubs cover steppes, while acacia and palms often grow in areas below 3,000 feet.
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Most agriculture on Gabal is subsistent in nature. Commercial agriculture takes place primarily in the lowland valleys of Culion Island, and is almost exclusively annual crops: cabbage, cassava, corn, eggplant, garlic, onion, peanut, sweet potato, rice, sugarcane, tobacco, and vegetables. The country’s main commercial crops are rice, corn, and sugarcane. Permanent crops are not a focus of the formal agricultural community, and are basically limited to backyard fruit trees—coconut, lemon, mango, pineapple, and papaya—that are kept for personal consumption purposes. The country has no agricultural exports: all locally-grown foodstuffs are either consumed by the general populace or by the country’s many tourists. Gabal imports flour, grains, and soybeans, in addition to products grown in neighboring countries.
  
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=== Agriculture ===
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Slash-and-burn agriculture has been used historically as a method of crop production, but has fallen out of favor in the country’s push to regrow its forests. In the few cases where this method been replaced with using commercial seeds, improper application of chemical fertilizers and insecticides has contaminated both soil and water. The government is attempting to increase agricultural success by encouraging such methods as crop rotation and co-planting of complementary plants, but results have been inconsistent.
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Although arable farmland only accounts for 9.9% of all Arianian territory, agriculture employs 25% of the labor force. Out of the total arable farmland available, Arianians cultivate less than a quarter due to poor soil conditions and lack of adequate water distribution. Arianian farmers irrigate one- third of the cultivated land and dry farm (rain-feed) the remainder. Arianian irrigation methods include diversion of rivers through deep wells. Ariana’s western and northwestern areas possess the most fertile soils.
 
  
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Ariana’s wide temperature variations and its multiplicity of climatic zones make it possible to cultivate a diverse variety of crops such as rice, wheat, corn, barley, dates, figs, tea, tobacco, vegetables, and cotton. Barley, wheat, and rice dominate Arianian agricultural output. Arianians grow wheat and barley throughout the country in both rain-fed and irrigated areas, but limit rice production to the moist areas that border the Caspian Sea. Because of its large population, Ariana must import a significant amount of food, particularly rice and wheat. Ariana claims the title of the world’s largest pistachio nut producer. Nuts and dried fruits comprise Ariana’s third most important export after oil and gas.
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== Livestock & Wildlife ==
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Gabalians have some livestock, especially in the mountains, where cultivation is more difficult. The most common domesticated animals include goats, pigs, and poultry; a few cattle and water buffalo can also be found on the islands. The country possesses multiple types of wildlife, including badger, bat, civet cat, crocodile, deer, lemur, manatee, mongoose, monkey, porcupine, scaly anteater, squirrel, tree shrew, and wild boar. While these animals can be found on Busuanga and Cuilon, most wildlife—especially the larger predators—resides on Coron Island, which is closed to the general public.
  
 
== Climate ==
 
== Climate ==
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The country’s diverse topography contributes to a climate subject to extreme variation. The climate ranges from subtropical in the south to subpolar at high elevations. The Caspian Sea coastline experiences a mild climate, while the central plateau is semi-arid to arid. Summer and winter can generate extreme temperatures of hot and cold respectively. Rainfall mainly occurs in spring. Ariana experiences all four seasons: spring lasts from March to June, summer until September, fall occurs between September and December, and winter takes place from December to March.
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Gabal experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, also called a monsoonal climate, with two distinct seasons. The dry season runs from November–April, and the rainy season is from May–October. Rainfall is the lowest in March and reaches its peak in August. The coolest part of the year falls during the dry season, while the warmest temperatures occur during the transition period to the rainy season. Relative humidity is high year-round, though relatively lower during the dry season. Winds follow a distinctive northeast, east, southwest cycle that corresponds to—and causes—the country’s seasons.
  
 
== Seasons ==
 
== Seasons ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
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|+Seasons for Ariana, Atropia, Gorgas, Limaria, and North Caucasus (Donovia)
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|'''Country/Season'''
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|'''Season'''
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|'''Winter'''
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|'''Months'''
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|'''Spring'''
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|'''Remarks'''
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|'''Summer'''
 
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|'''Fall'''
 
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|-
 
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|'''Ariana'''
 
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|Dec – Feb
 
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|Mar – May
 
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|Jun – Aug
 
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|Sep – Nov
 
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|-
 
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|'''Atropia'''
 
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|Jan – Mar
 
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|Mar – End May
 
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|Jun – Oct
 
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|Mid Oct – Dec
 
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|-
 
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|'''Gorgas'''
 
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|Dec – Feb
 
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|Weather May
 
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|Jun – Aug
 
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|Sep – Nov
 
 
|-
 
|-
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|'''Limaria'''
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|'''Dry'''
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|Nov – Mar
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|November–April
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|Mar – May
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|Driest in March, coolest in January
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|Jun – Sep
 
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|End Sep – Nov
 
 
|-
 
|-
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|'''North  Caucasus (Donovia)'''
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|'''Rainy'''
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|Dec – Mar
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|May–October
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|Apr – May
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|Wettest in August, hottest in May
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|Jun – Sep
 
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|Oct – Nov
 
 
|}
 
|}
  
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=== Precipitation ===
 
=== Precipitation ===
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Most of Ariana’s precipitation falls in the spring months. Ariana’s national annual precipitation averages only about 14 inches. The Caspian Sea coastal region receives the country’s greatest annual precipitation, which varies from 32 to 80 inches. With the exception of the high mountain valleys of the Zagros and Caspian coastal plain, little precipitation occurs throughout the rest of the country. The highest western slopes of the Zagros Mountains receive more than 40 inches of rain annually. Fewer than four inches of rain fall annually over the Dash-e Lut and Dash-e Kavir deserts. Heavy winter snow in the mountains combined with spring rains cause annual floods in parts of Ariana. Torrential rains in dry seasons or parched areas may rapidly fill ''wadis'' (dry streambeds) with runoff water that causes flash floods.
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Precipitation in Gabal comes in the form of rain, with an annual average of over 100 inches. March has the least amount of rainfall—less than two inches—with slightly greater amounts in April. The months of May–July experience increasing levels of precipitation that culminate in August, the country’s wettest month, with 15 inches. Rainfall then falls off rapidly from September–November, with slightly increased amounts during December–February before the cycle begins all over again.
  
 
=== Temperature-Heat Index ===
 
=== Temperature-Heat Index ===
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Seasonal winds, elevations, and proximity to deserts or mountain ranges play a significant role in daily and seasonal temperature fluctuation. The extreme hot temperatures in the summer,  partnered with dangerous winds, will make troop mobility slow, difficult, and limited. The harsh conditions will make operating in the area a challenge.
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Gabal lies in a tropical zone, and the country’s temperatures reflect this. Average monthly highs range from the mid-80s to the lower 90s (degrees Farenheit). Monthly lows are not much cooler, only dropping around 8–10°F. The average difference between night and day temperatures is usually greater than the seasonal variation of either one. Record highs usually fall in the 90s, but have been known to reach 100°F. When combined with Gabal’s high relative humidity, the heat index can easily reach levels that could endanger US personnel.
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In the summer, daytime temperatures drop as low as 35°F in the mountains of the northwest region but can run as high as 120°F in the desert regions and near the Persian Gulf. In addition to the heat, summers occur without any precipitation. The south, especially near the Persian Gulf, possesses a reputation for its unpleasant climate. Hot and humid summers, with temperatures that can reach 123°F in Dastet province by the gulf, can make outside work difficult. Excessive heat and high humidity in Dastet makes the weather almost unbearable to people from other parts of the country. The heat can cause heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and even heatstroke.
 
  
 
=== Temperature-Wind Chill Index ===
 
=== Temperature-Wind Chill Index ===
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In winter, Ariana experiences temperatures at or below freezing. The northwest usually has the coldest winters, with heavy snows and subfreezing temperatures in December and January.
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Temperatures very rarely drop below 70°F at night, even in the coolest part of the year. The only exception would be on the higher mountain peaks, where the elevation, humidity, and ocean breezes could combine to produce weather cool enough to necessitate a light jacket at night.
  
 
=== Relative Humidity ===
 
=== Relative Humidity ===
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Relative humidity varies throughout Ariana. The central portion of the country experiences low relative humidity year-round, while the coastal areas near the Persian Gulf and the Caspian coast are known for their high humidity, especially during the summer months. The Zagros and Elburz mountain ranges experience higher humidity during the spring rains, but are relatively dry during the rest of the year.
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Relative humidity is high throughout the year in Gabal. Typically above 85% in the mornings, it reaches the mid-90s during July–November. Evenings are more tolerable, when the humidity drops around 13 percentage points from its morning level. When combined with the country’s high temperatures, it produces the type of hot, humid conditions stereotypically associated with tropical jungles.
  
 
=== Wind ===
 
=== Wind ===
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The ''baad-e sad-o-bist rooseh'' (wind of 120 days) wind occurs during the hot summer days and carries sand particles. With a velocity of 70 miles per hour, the wind blows toward the province of Akroidet in the southeast, destroys plants and vegetation, strips away soil, and damages buildings and livestock. Traveling is limited and dust particles clog air intakes on cars and other vehicles. The dust also works its way into machinery of all kinds.
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Gabal experiences an annual wind cycle that drives the country’s seasons. Trade winds from the northeast begin blowing in November, ushering in the dry season. These winds, which are also known as the ''amihan'' or the northeast monsoon, blow through February and bring cool, dry air to the country. They recede and are replaced with the ''silanganin'', or “easterlies,” from March–June, which bring clouds, heat, and increasing rainfall. The ''habagat'' (southwest monsoon) begins in July and runs through October. This wind brings cooler temperatures and higher humidity; precipitation in the country peaks and then recedes during this time.
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Large dust and sand storms in desert areas in the center of the country can limit visibility and adversely affect equipment and machinery. The storms carry dust and/or sand particles in the air  and sometimes the dust becomes suspended in the air. Upsweeps and downdrafts also spread dust in the atmosphere in the summer, creating haze after strong storms. The storms cloud visibility, damage machinery and equipment, ruin electrical circuits, and wear away textiles.
 
  
 +
Tropical cyclones, which are rated from tropical depression (mildest; winds under 37 mph) to super typhoon (most severe; winds over 136 mph), are possible from June–December. Though the country’s eastern and northern neighbors usually take the brunt of these storms, Gabal is not immune to them. Two recent cyclones that made landfall on the country are Tropical Storm Tokage in November 2016 and Super Typhoon Haiyan in November 2013. The latter had winds of 155 mph when it made landfall on Gabal, killing hundreds and affecting thousands more.
 
== Summary ==
 
== Summary ==
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The Caucasus region, containing the Greater and Lesser Caucasus Mountains, forms the traditional division between Europe and Asia. All countries contain different weather and terrain, and soldiers must prepare for seasonal extremes—winter and summer. Areas with flat plains and valleys, such as coastal plains, will favor troop mechanized movement. The mountainous regions, especially in the Greater and Lesser Caucasus Mountains, will compound vehicle and equipment breakdowns. Numerous roads, already in poor condition in most of the countries, will become inaccessible for vehicular traffic because of winter snow. Military planners will need to anticipate the closure of mountain passes for up to six months a year due to snow.
+
Gabal’s terrain consists of craggy mountains interspersed with flat lowland plains, limiting the country’s agricultural potential and creating transportation challenges. The lack of land borders and prevalence of natural disasters—such as typhoons and landslides—will complicate missions. Troops must deal with extreme temperatures and humidity throughout the country. Frequent rains will hamper operations and maneuverability, as will seasonal cloud cover.
  
 
[[Category:DATE]]
 
[[Category:DATE]]

Revision as of 17:53, 23 April 2018

This page is a section of Gabal.

Gabal is a small country located in an archipelago in the western Pacific Ocean. It borders Belesia and South Torbia—with whom it has friendly relations. The country’s terrain consists primary of forested mountains and low grassy valleys. Both vegetation and climate are tropical in nature. Multiple natural hazards exist, resulting from the country’s geology, weather, native wildlife, and human activity.

Measure Data Remarks
Land Area (sq miles) 605 Busuanga (369), Culion (152), Coron (28); Includes inland water
Land Border (miles) 0 Island group
Coastline (miles) 775  
Highest Elevation (ft) 2,041 Mount Tundalara
Lowest Elevation (ft) 0 Sea Level
Arable (cultivated) Land (%) 10 Primarily southern Culion
Permanent Crops (%) <1  
Permanent Pasture (%) <1 36% grasslands that could be used for pastoral purposes
Irrigated Land (%) <1  
Forested Land (%) 52  
Urban Area (%) <1  

Terrain

Gabal possesses 605 square miles of territory in southeastern Asia. Consisting of a group of more than 70 islands and islets, Gabal is part of a larger archipelago bounded by the Philippine Sea—part of the western Pacific Ocean—to the east, the South China Sea to the west, and the Celebes Sea to the south. The country shares only maritime borders with its neighbors, which include South Torbia to the northeast and Belesia to the southeast and southwest. The islands are mountainous in nature, with interspersed valleys on the larger islands.

Gabal can be broken into three primary island groups centered around the largest islands: Busuanga, Culion, and Coron. Busuanga, the largest island, lies in the country’s north and covers 369 square miles. The island consists primarily of long, narrow mountain ranges separated by narrow valleys. Two larger valleys exist; one on the northeastern end of the island, and one along the northern shore of the island’s southern half. Culion Island lies in the southwest and, at 152 square miles, is the country’s second-largest island. Though also covered by mountains and valleys, the terrain does not form a distinctive pattern like it does on Busuanga. Coron is the third-largest island (28 sq miles), and is considered sacred by Gabalian tribesmen. Roughly triangular in shape, it consists of mountain plateaus on the north, west, and south, and a flat valley in the east; its most notable feature is Cabugao Lake, which lies in the center of the island.
Topography of Ariana

Bodies of Water

As an island nation, Gabal is surrounded by bodies of water on all sides. The South China Sea lies to its northwest, and the Sulu Sea to its southeast. The Mindoro Strait separates the country from South Torbia in the northeast, and the narrower Linapacan Strait separates it from Belesia in the southwest. The islands possess multiple bays, harbors, anchorages, and lagoons. The largest of these, Coron Bay, is sheltered by the three main island groups: Coron on the east, Busuanga on the north, and Culion on the west. The bay is famous for its shipwrecks from World War II, and is a popular diving location for tourists. Inland waters include a few rivers on Culion and Busuanga Islands, with some being navigable near their mouths by shallow-draft vessels. and a series of lakes on Coron Island. Cabugao Lake is the largest, covering a surface area of 1.56 square miles (1,001 acres), while Kayangan Lake is believed to be the cleanest lake in the entire region. Underwater caves are also present in the archipelago, and are popular tourist attractions.

Mobility Classification

Movement in Gabal is difficult due to the mountainous island nature of the country. Water transport methods are required between islands and, once on land, the mountain ranges naturally canalize movement. Heavy rains, flooding, and mud/landslides can seriously hamper troop movement during the rainy season. The presence of forests in the higher mountains increases difficulties and provides cover for enemy forces and smugglers, while multiple rivers and streams challenge mechanized and motorized movement. Air operation impediments include mountain ranges, forests, steep valleys and gorges, and cyclonic storms.

Natural Hazards

Gabal is subject to many types of natural disasters, including tropical cyclones, flash floods, land and mudslides, and tsunamis. Mountainous areas and those cleared of vegetation are most prone to land and mudslides, while the coastal areas are more likely to be affected by tsunamis and storm surges. The region experiences frequent earthquakes and, while Gabal rarely lies at the epicenter, it is not exempt from the effects. Cyclonic storms hit regularly, with an average of one storm a year reaching typhoon category. One of these, Super Typhoon Haiyan, left hundreds of Gabalians dead in its wake in 2013. The country is also concerned about possible rising sea levels due to climate change. Dangerous animals in the country include poisonous caterpillars, centipedes, crocodiles, poisonous frogs, jellyfish, scorpions, sharks, snakes, and spiders.

Subterranean Environment

The islands are full of caves, both above and below sea level. In addition to the multitude of naturally-occurring caves, mining on the islands has produced networks of tunnels. Many of these were abandoned as the chromite was exhausted, and are now used by occasionally by smugglers for storing illegal contraband. The higher-level tunnels are also used as emergency shelters by local residents during and after larger cyclonic storms.

Vegetation

Around 52% of Gabal is forested, primarily consisting of rain forest in the upper elevations of the mountains and on Coron Island. Most trees are broadleaf varieties such as balau, meranti, and narra; other plant species found in montane forests—such as bamboo, ferns, orchids, and climbing palms (rattan)—are also present. Due to the country’s climate, trees keep their leaves year round. A considerable number of Culion’s valleys—primarily in the island’s south—are devoted to agriculture. Those areas that are not forested or cultivated are covered by tropical savannahs, mixed grasslands, and scrub trees. Small mangrove swamps can be found on the coastline. The country has made a concerted effort to reverse a decades-long deforestation trend in recent years, and is slowly seeing results in this area.

Agriculture

Most agriculture on Gabal is subsistent in nature. Commercial agriculture takes place primarily in the lowland valleys of Culion Island, and is almost exclusively annual crops: cabbage, cassava, corn, eggplant, garlic, onion, peanut, sweet potato, rice, sugarcane, tobacco, and vegetables. The country’s main commercial crops are rice, corn, and sugarcane. Permanent crops are not a focus of the formal agricultural community, and are basically limited to backyard fruit trees—coconut, lemon, mango, pineapple, and papaya—that are kept for personal consumption purposes. The country has no agricultural exports: all locally-grown foodstuffs are either consumed by the general populace or by the country’s many tourists. Gabal imports flour, grains, and soybeans, in addition to products grown in neighboring countries.

Slash-and-burn agriculture has been used historically as a method of crop production, but has fallen out of favor in the country’s push to regrow its forests. In the few cases where this method been replaced with using commercial seeds, improper application of chemical fertilizers and insecticides has contaminated both soil and water. The government is attempting to increase agricultural success by encouraging such methods as crop rotation and co-planting of complementary plants, but results have been inconsistent.

Livestock & Wildlife

Gabalians have some livestock, especially in the mountains, where cultivation is more difficult. The most common domesticated animals include goats, pigs, and poultry; a few cattle and water buffalo can also be found on the islands. The country possesses multiple types of wildlife, including badger, bat, civet cat, crocodile, deer, lemur, manatee, mongoose, monkey, porcupine, scaly anteater, squirrel, tree shrew, and wild boar. While these animals can be found on Busuanga and Cuilon, most wildlife—especially the larger predators—resides on Coron Island, which is closed to the general public.

Climate

Gabal experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, also called a monsoonal climate, with two distinct seasons. The dry season runs from November–April, and the rainy season is from May–October. Rainfall is the lowest in March and reaches its peak in August. The coolest part of the year falls during the dry season, while the warmest temperatures occur during the transition period to the rainy season. Relative humidity is high year-round, though relatively lower during the dry season. Winds follow a distinctive northeast, east, southwest cycle that corresponds to—and causes—the country’s seasons.

Seasons

Season Months Remarks
Dry November–April Driest in March, coolest in January
Rainy May–October Wettest in August, hottest in May

Weather

Precipitation

Precipitation in Gabal comes in the form of rain, with an annual average of over 100 inches. March has the least amount of rainfall—less than two inches—with slightly greater amounts in April. The months of May–July experience increasing levels of precipitation that culminate in August, the country’s wettest month, with 15 inches. Rainfall then falls off rapidly from September–November, with slightly increased amounts during December–February before the cycle begins all over again.

Temperature-Heat Index

Gabal lies in a tropical zone, and the country’s temperatures reflect this. Average monthly highs range from the mid-80s to the lower 90s (degrees Farenheit). Monthly lows are not much cooler, only dropping around 8–10°F. The average difference between night and day temperatures is usually greater than the seasonal variation of either one. Record highs usually fall in the 90s, but have been known to reach 100°F. When combined with Gabal’s high relative humidity, the heat index can easily reach levels that could endanger US personnel.

Temperature-Wind Chill Index

Temperatures very rarely drop below 70°F at night, even in the coolest part of the year. The only exception would be on the higher mountain peaks, where the elevation, humidity, and ocean breezes could combine to produce weather cool enough to necessitate a light jacket at night.

Relative Humidity

Relative humidity is high throughout the year in Gabal. Typically above 85% in the mornings, it reaches the mid-90s during July–November. Evenings are more tolerable, when the humidity drops around 13 percentage points from its morning level. When combined with the country’s high temperatures, it produces the type of hot, humid conditions stereotypically associated with tropical jungles.

Wind

Gabal experiences an annual wind cycle that drives the country’s seasons. Trade winds from the northeast begin blowing in November, ushering in the dry season. These winds, which are also known as the amihan or the northeast monsoon, blow through February and bring cool, dry air to the country. They recede and are replaced with the silanganin, or “easterlies,” from March–June, which bring clouds, heat, and increasing rainfall. The habagat (southwest monsoon) begins in July and runs through October. This wind brings cooler temperatures and higher humidity; precipitation in the country peaks and then recedes during this time.

Tropical cyclones, which are rated from tropical depression (mildest; winds under 37 mph) to super typhoon (most severe; winds over 136 mph), are possible from June–December. Though the country’s eastern and northern neighbors usually take the brunt of these storms, Gabal is not immune to them. Two recent cyclones that made landfall on the country are Tropical Storm Tokage in November 2016 and Super Typhoon Haiyan in November 2013. The latter had winds of 155 mph when it made landfall on Gabal, killing hundreds and affecting thousands more.

Summary

Gabal’s terrain consists of craggy mountains interspersed with flat lowland plains, limiting the country’s agricultural potential and creating transportation challenges. The lack of land borders and prevalence of natural disasters—such as typhoons and landslides—will complicate missions. Troops must deal with extreme temperatures and humidity throughout the country. Frequent rains will hamper operations and maneuverability, as will seasonal cloud cover.

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