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Location:
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North America, group of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, east of South Carolina (US)
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Geographic coordinates:
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32 20 N, 64 45 W
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Map references:
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north america
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Area:
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total: 53.3 sq km
water: 0 sq km
land: 53.3 sq km
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Area - comparative:
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about one-third the size of Washington, DC
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Land boundaries:
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0 km
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Coastline:
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103 km
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Maritime claims:
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territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
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Climate:
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subtropical; mild, humid; gales, strong winds common in winter
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Terrain:
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low hills separated by fertile depressions
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Elevation extremes:
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lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
highest point: Town Hill 76 m
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Natural resources:
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limestone, pleasant climate fostering tourism
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Land use:
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arable land: 20%
permanent crops: 0%
other: 80% (55% developed, 45% rural/open space) (2001)
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Irrigated land:
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NA sq km
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Natural hazards:
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hurricanes (June to November)
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Environment - current issues:
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asbestos disposal; water pollution; preservation of open space; sustainable development
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Geography - note:
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consists of about 138 coral islands and islets with ample rainfall, but no rivers or freshwater lakes; some land was leased by US Government from 1941 to 1995
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