By Barbara Brown
Manana si Yu'us! Tropical Depression 06W is passing a few miles southwest of Guam right now (it's 5:16 a.m. Tuesday as of the writing of this update), according to the latest statements from the National Weather Service and Civil Defense.
Bottom line: GovGuam and Guam public schools (summer school in session) will resume normal operations today.
Please call GPA Trouble Dispatch if your power goes out, or you notice hazardous conditions involving the system of electricity: (671) 475-1472/3/4.
The following is a news release from Guam Civil Defense:
The National Weather Service (NWS) Weather Forecast Office Guam continues to monitor Tropical Depression 06W. Tropical Depression 06W will continue northwest and is expected to pass about 50 miles southwest of Guam making its closest approach around 6 a.m., then continue on a northwest track today and tonight, taking 06W out to the west of Guam by noon as it gradually intensifies into a tropical storm.
As of 4 a.m., 06W was located 12.6 degrees north latitude and 144.5 degrees east longitude, about 60 miles south-southwest of Guam. It is currently moving northwest at 14 mph with maximum sustained winds of 35 mph.
Southeast winds of 20 to 30 mph will gust to 40 mph or more in heavy showers this morning, especially in higher elevations in southern Guam. Winds are expected to decrease slowly during the afternoon as 06W moves off to the northwest and should be 15 to 20 mph by evening. Heavy showers will develop with 2 to 4 inches of rain possible through this evening. Be alert for any flooding in your area.
Guam remains in COR 3 at this time. While school and government of Guam operations are expected to conduct business as usual, the community is reminded to practice caution on the roadways as rainy weather is still expected throughout the day.
The following advisories remain in effect:
A tropical storm warning remains in effect for Guam, meaning tropical storm conditions, including damaging winds of 39 mph or more, are expected Tuesday morning.
A tropical storm watch and a small craft advisory remain in effect for Rota coastal waters until 10 a.m. Wednesday. East to southeast winds 15 to 25 kt with gusts up to 35 kt and seas of 7 to 11 feet are expected. Strong winds and hazardous seas could capsize or damage vessels. Mariners should consider altering plans to avoid possible hazardous conditions. Remain in port, seek safe harbor, alter course, and/or secure the vessel for severe wind and seas.
A flash flood watch is in effect for Guam, Rota, Tinian, and Saipan through Tuesday evening. Torrential rains could lead to flash flooding in low-lying and poor-drainage areas. Rainfall of 3 to 5 inches with locally heavier amounts are possible through Tuesday evening.
A high surf advisory is in effect for Guam, Rota, Tinian, and Saipan until 10 a.m. Wednesday morning. Hazardous surf of 9 to 12 feet is expected for east and south facing reefs of the Marianas, producing dangerous swimming and surfing conditions and localized beach erosion.
