Super typhoon Bavi approaches Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands

Residents of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands are preparing for the arrival of Super Typhoon Bavi, currently classified as a Category 5 equivalent storm. According to the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC), the storm is moving westward with sustained winds of 259 km/h and gusts reaching 314 km/h. In Saipan, the capital of the Northern Mariana Islands, residents have been stocking up on essential supplies, including food, water, and building materials to reinforce their homes. Fuel stations have reported long queues as vehicles prepare for the storm. Although forecasts suggest the typhoon may weaken slightly, it is expected to make landfall on Monday morning. These territories are still recovering from the impact of Typhoon Sinlaku, which struck in April and caused widespread power outages and infrastructure damage. Authorities have issued warnings for tropical storm conditions as a minimum preparation requirement.