A satellite image from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration depicts Typhoon Bavi approaching the U.S. Pacific island territory of Guam on July 3, 2026. The remote U.S. territories of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands brace for the arrival of Super Typhoon Bavi, which forecasts predict will cause extensive damage.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued typhoon warnings for Guam, Rota, Tinian, and Saipan, the capital of the Northern Mariana Islands. Local NWS meteorologist Landon Aydlett reported deteriorating weather conditions, including heavy rain and strong winds on Monday morning local time. This super typhoon threatens significant destruction, especially on the island of Rota.
With maximum sustained winds reaching 165 miles per hour on Sunday, the super typhoon moves north. Its strength may increase to 180 miles per hour, classifying it as a major category five storm. Structural damage, fallen trees, and power outages are major concerns. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) designates cyclones with sustained winds of 150 miles per hour or greater in the western North Pacific as super typhoons.
Guam Governor Lou Leon Guerrero escalated the island’s emergency readiness status, urging residents to stay safe and avoid travel. Emergency shelters, nearing capacity, serve residents from low-lying areas and homes constructed of wood and tin.
Particularly concerning are communities still recovering from April’s Typhoon Sinlaku. Power remains out for many on Saipan and Tinian. Shelters reinforce safety plans, but some must turn people away due to crowding. Power outages are reported in Guam, flights face cancellations, and the Port Authority of Guam has suspended operations. Flash flood warnings affect Rota, Saipan, Tinian, and Guam, including Dededo.
Aydlett stresses staying indoors as officials aim for zero fatalities. Andersen Air Force Base on Guam restricts access to essential personnel only.
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