Many businesses across the Commonwealth are still struggling to reopen afterTyphoon Sinlaku slammed into Tinian and Saipan with 145 mph winds, leaving widespread damage to homes and commercial buildings.
On Saipan, small business owner Michael Temperante, operator of 3Hi‑Res Design and Print in Chalan Kanoa, said his shop was flooded even with shutters secured. Strong winds pushed rainwater inside, soaking equipment and apparel.
Temperante managed to open for a half‑day on Monday, but said full operations remain uncertain.
“For my business, I’m not sure when regular operations will resume. Most residents, businesses and even government offices are still closed,” he said.
He described the storm’s toll on the island’s business community as severe.
“The impact is huge because the typhoon impeded operations — not just mine, but others as well.”
Temperante said the timeline for recovery depends heavily on power restoration.
“Normal operations really depend on how quickly power is restored. It could take about two months.”
He added that equipment damage and employee availability are also slowing efforts to reopen, noting that many businesses are facing similar challenges.
Temperante’s home in Dandan was also damaged.
“Sinlaku is one of the most devastating typhoons I’ve experienced besides Yutu and Soudelor,” he said.
He recalled being unable to sleep during the height of the storm.
“I didn’t know what I’d wake up to in the morning,” he said, adding that while his main house is concrete, an extension made of wood and tin roofing was at risk throughout the typhoon.
As recovery continues, Temperante said the road back to normalcy will be long for many small businesses across Saipan.
