Tropical Depression 04W is expected to continue intensifying over the next few days, eventually developing into a typhoon that will pass south of Guam, forecasters said Thursday.
At 4 p.m., the system was 620 miles southeast of Guam, at 8.1 degrees north latitude and 152.1 degrees east longitude.
It was moving west at 5 mph with maximum sustained winds of 30 mph.
The system has shifted slightly north and is moving slower than expected. There is still uncertainty about the potential for a faster-moving storm, as well as shifts to the north or south.
"Any changes will have notable effects regarding potential impacts for individual locations on Guam and in the rest of the Marianas," Guam Homeland Security/Civil Defense stated in a news release.
Forecasters said damaging winds of 39 mph or more are possible as early as Monday morning, with destructive typhoon-force winds of 74 mph or more possible Monday night for Guam.
In the meantime, residents can expect fair weather and breezy winds for the next couple of days, with showers, thunderstorms and gusty winds developing Sunday.
Seas will be hazardous, with waves of 20-25 feet on east-facing reefs, shifting to the south as the system passes.
Coastal inundation is possible.
Residents and visitors are advised to take the following precautionary actions:
- Those living in flood-prone areas should prepare to take action, such as clearing drainage areas and unblocking storm drains to minimize flooding.
- Stay up to date with the latest information.
- Clear loose debris around your yard and prepare to secure any items, such as tents and canopies, that could become airborne with heavy winds, before inclement weather arrives.
- Prepare to secure construction sites and loose items on sites.
- Secure or be prepared to take down signs, such as campaign signs.
- Have an emergency kit prepared: Store enough food and water for your household for 7-10 days. Include medication, disinfectant supplies and pet supplies.
- Secure important documents such as birth certificates, tax papers, and insurance documents and keep copies in a waterproof bag.
- Review your emergency plan: If you do not have a plan, learn how to create an emergency plan.
