Guam and Rota have been upgraded to typhoon warnings by meteorological authorities, indicating the imminent arrival of damaging winds exceeding 39 mph within the next 24 hours. The typhoon, named Mawar, is anticipated to bring typhoon-force winds by Wednesday morning. While a Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Tinian and Saipan, a Typhoon Watch remains in place for both islands. As the islands brace themselves for a potential direct hit or close passage from Typhoon Mawar, teams from the Federal Emergency Management Agency have been dispatched to Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas.
Impending Typhoon Conditions:
Meteorologist Landon Aydlett, the warning coordination meteorologist, warned that all four islands—Guam, Rota, Tinian, and Saipan—are likely to experience at least tropical storm-force conditions in the middle of the week. The typhoon’s intensity is expected to reach category 2 or 3 on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, with maximum sustained winds of approximately 115 mph. The possibility of a direct hit or near-miss cannot be ruled out for any of the islands.
Preparations and Shelters:
In response to the approaching typhoon, government storm shelters are scheduled to open at 5 p.m. on Monday, and a comprehensive list of shelter locations will be disseminated. Residents of Guam are advised to be fully prepared for the typhoon by sundown on Tuesday, as tropical storm-force winds ranging from 39 mph to 73 mph, with gusts up to 94 mph, are anticipated. Rainfall of up to 11 inches is expected on Guam over the next few days, with the potential for higher amounts if the typhoon’s pace slows down during its passage.
Revised Track and Impact:
Recent updates indicate that Typhoon Mawar has shifted westward, making it more likely to pass through the southern islands of Tinian and Saipan. However, a direct hit on these islands is now less probable, according to the National Weather Service. As of the latest data, the typhoon is located approximately 355 miles south-southeast of Guam, moving at a speed of 6 mph in a north-northwest direction.
Emergency Measures and Support:
The chances of Guam experiencing at least tropical storm-force winds are estimated to be around 90%, with a nearly 40% likelihood of encountering typhoon-force winds. The local government has enacted price-gouging regulations, prohibiting merchants and landlords from increasing prices until the island returns to Condition of Readiness 4. Furthermore, village mayoral offices will be staffed around the clock during the storm to address residents’ inquiries and concerns.
Educational Institutions and Public Services:
Various educational institutions and public offices have implemented measures in response to the approaching typhoon. The Guam Department of Education and its school sites, along with the Archdiocese of Agana Catholic schools, will remain closed until Condition of Readiness 4 is announced. The University of Guam and Guam Community College will also be closed during this period. Additionally, the Guam Legislature, judicial court, and other public services will suspend their operations until the island reaches Condition of Readiness 4.
Conclusion:
As Typhoon Mawar continues to approach the Marianas Islands, vigilance and preparedness are of utmost importance. Stay informed by regularly monitoring local news, the National Weather Service, and the Joint Information Center. Take necessary precautions such as securing your property, assembling emergency kits, and safeguarding important documents. Remember to assist vulnerable individuals in your community and ensure that pets are included in your emergency plans. For the most up-to-date advisory information, visit the websites and social media pages of the National Weather Service, Guam Homeland Security/Office of Civil Defense, and Joint Region Marianas.
