Super Typhoon Bavi Slams Rota, Threatens Guam and Other Marianas Islands

Overview

• The cyclone made landfall on Rota late Sunday, local officials reported large wind and flood damage as the storm’s eyewall passed over the island.
• U.S. meteorological agencies rated Bavi as a very dangerous super typhoon with sustained winds near Category 5 levels and gust estimates reported up to roughly 346–350 km/h.
• Tropical cyclone warnings remain in effect for Guam, Saipan and Tinian with forecasts of heavy rain, life‑threatening surf and significant storm surge that could flood coastal areas.
• FEMA prepositioned supplies and opened evacuation centers in Guam, staging water, meals, cots and generators to support relief and likely extended outages.
• The Marianas’ recovery is complicated by recent storms and a developing El Niño that warms Pacific waters, increasing the islands’ vulnerability and extending expected repair and power‑restoration times.