Residents of Guam and the Northern Marianas are moving to emergency evacuation centers and making last-minute preparations as Super Typhoon Bavi approaches. The National Weather Service has labeled the typhoon 'very dangerous', with winds of up to 260 kilometers per hour (160 miles per hour) and gusts reaching 315 kph, equivalent to a category 5 hurricane.
Evacuations and Preparations
As the typhoon nears, authorities have opened evacuation centers in schools and stocked them with essential supplies. FEMA teams are on the ground, ensuring that 1.1 million liters of water, 1.2 million meals, 6,700 cots, and 90 generators are ready for distribution.
Impact and Warnings
The National Weather Service has warned of 'tropical storm force' winds starting from Sunday afternoon or evening, with 'catastrophic' damage expected near the typhoon's center. Significant flooding from torrential rains and coastal inundation are anticipated, with waves projected to reach up to 35 feet (10.7 meters).
Residents' Concerns
Local residents have expressed their concerns and preparations. Pinky Cubacub, who owns an eatery in Guam, said she had to buy $500 worth of plywood to board up her windows. 'I cannot afford to lose so many days. It hurts,' she said. Call center employee Arabella Paulino noted, 'My house is concrete, so the worst that can happen is a window could blow in.'
Tourism and Travel
The typhoon has also impacted travel plans. Japanese tourist Miku Sakurai, who was supposed to fly back to Tokyo, had her flight canceled due to the weather. 'We will stay in the hotel when the storm comes. I am scared,' she said as heavy rain began to fall.
Previous Storms and Preparedness
The region was previously hit by Super Typhoon Sinlaku in mid-April, which caused significant damage, including power outages, uprooted trees, and structural damage to buildings. The lessons learned from that storm have likely influenced the current preparations and evacuation efforts.
