Guam has been placed in ‘Condition of Readiness 3’ as Tropical Storm Champi moves towards the Mariana Islands, with residents warned to prepare for potentially damaging winds, heavy rain and flooding.
A Condition of Readiness 3 means that destructive or damaging winds are possible or forecasted within 48 hours.
Governor Lou Leon Guerrero ordered the alert.
The National Weather Service in Guam said the system, previously designated Invest 96W, is continuing to organise and strengthen.
Forecasters say the storm’s track and intensity remain uncertain, but Guam could experience strong winds, heavy rainfall, flooding and hazardous marine conditions in the coming days.
Governor Leon Guerrero said the early declaration gives families, businesses and government agencies time to prepare before conditions deteriorate.
She has urged residents to secure their homes and ensure their families have essential supplies.
Residents are being advised to stock enough food, drinking water, medication and other emergency supplies for at least seven to 10 days.
They should also secure loose outdoor items, charge mobile devices, prepare flashlights and emergency radios, and review family emergency plans.
The governor has also urged the public to stay out of the water during storm conditions, warning that people who enter hazardous waters put both themselves and emergency responders at risk.
The Leon Guerrero-Tenorio administration, together with Guam Homeland Security and the Office of Civil Defense, is coordinating preparedness efforts with government agencies and emergency response partners.
Residents are urged to follow official updates from Guam Homeland Security and the National Weather Service.
Further announcements are expected as the system develops.
