Guam: Emergency evacuations are underway in Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands as Super Typhoon Bavi approaches the US Pacific territories, with forecasters warning of destructive winds, torrential rain and life-threatening storm surge.
The US National Weather Service (NWS) said Bavi is expected to make landfall early Monday, bringing sustained winds of up to 257 km/h (160 mph). Authorities warned the storm could cause catastrophic damage, significant flooding and waves reaching nearly 11 metres (35 feet).
Residents have been urged to evacuate immediately if instructed by local officials, particularly those living in flood-prone or vulnerable areas. Officials warned that dangerous conditions could begin eight to 10 hours before and after the storm’s centre passes.
Guam, home to about 170,000 people, has opened five evacuation centres, although one had already reached capacity, forcing authorities to redirect evacuees to other shelters.
The Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) has classified Bavi as a super typhoon, with forecasts indicating winds could strengthen further before reaching the islands. Scientists say warming global temperatures are contributing to the increasing frequency of powerful tropical cyclones in the western Pacific.
