Super Typhoon Bavi Hits U.S. Territory Islands Near Guam

Super Typhoon Bavi made landfall on Monday over a small U.S. territorial island in the western Pacific near Guam. The storm brought strong winds and heavy rain to the Northern Mariana Islands.

The eye of the typhoon passed over the island of Rota on Monday morning, with winds exceeding 150 mph (241 kph), as reported by the National Weather Service. The storm was moving west toward the Philippines at about 9 mph (14 kph).

Meteorologist Brandon Aydlett from the National Weather Service advised residents to “hang tight” as conditions would slowly improve.

The cyclone affected other areas of the Northern Mariana Islands, including Guam. These regions were still recovering from the damage caused by another storm in April.

In Saipan, the international airport experienced wind gusts of more than 100 mph (161 kph). Many people in Saipan and nearby Tinian had been without electricity since the impact of Super Typhoon Sinlaku. Bavi was classified as a Category 5 super typhoon, with potential wind speeds reaching 180 mph (290 kph) and gusts of up to 215 mph (346 kph), according to meteorologist Edwin Montvila.

Typhoon and flash flood warnings were issued for Guam, Tinian, and Saipan, while tropical storm warnings and watches were in place for other nearby islands. The storm could deliver at least 20 inches (51 centimeters) of rain before leaving the area.

A cyclone achieves super typhoon status with sustained winds of 150 mph (241 kph) or more, comparable to a Category 4 or 5 storm. Montvila warned of “imminent danger to life,” advising residents to stay indoors and avoid windows. “Going outside can be deadly due to flying debris. Power lines and poles will likely be down,” he stated.

Although Bavi moved through quicker than Sinlaku, its size meant the islands could still experience tropical storm conditions, including heavy rain, through at least Monday night.

Guam Governor Lou Leon Guerrero encouraged residents to remain at home or in shelters. She reassured them of their readiness and preparation.

Father Francis Hezel, a priest in Dededo, Guam, recounted hearing the wind since early morning. He expressed hope for minimal damage as most residents live in concrete homes. “People are accustomed to typhoons and know how to prepare,” he said.