Gov. David Apatang has declared a State of Significant Emergency for the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and ordered a territory‑wide price freeze as Typhoon Sinlaku advances toward the region, with current forecasts indicating a closer approach to Rota on Monday.
The declaration, issued April 11, activates the Commonwealth Disaster Price Freeze Act. The order freezes the prices of all goods, services and housing rentals — including apartments and condominiums — until the emergency is lifted. During this period, it is illegal for businesses or landlords to raise prices.
On Saturday, the Office of the Governor and the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, in coordination with the National Weather Service in Guam, declared Typhoon Condition III for Saipan, Tinian and Rota, meaning typhoon‑force winds of 74 mph or more are possible within 48 hours.
Typhoon Sinlaku, designated 04W, continues to organize north‑northwest of Chuuk while tracking west‑northwest. Forecast models show a narrowing track spread, and while slight shifts remain possible, current guidance indicates the typhoon may pass closest to Rota, with Tinian and Saipan also within the potential impact zone.
The Marianas could see tropical storm‑ to typhoon‑force winds as early as Monday, depending on Sinlaku’s final track and intensity. In the Northern Islands, breezy and hazardous marine conditions are expected late this weekend into early next week, with possible tropical storm‑force winds by Tuesday.
Officials are urging residents to begin preparations, secure loose items and monitor updates from emergency management agencies.
The Commonwealth Utilities Corporation also issued a public advisory stating that “power and water are not scheduled to be turned off.”
According to the utility, rumors circulating that CUC’s power and water services will be shut off within 24 to 48 hours are false.
