The U.S. Coast Guard has reopened the Port of Saipan to all commercial vessel traffic and cargo operations after determining that hazardous conditions from Typhoon Choi‑Wan no longer pose a threat.
Captain of the Port J.S. Worst announced the reset to Port Heavy Weather Condition Whiskey at 7 a.m. Monday, allowing business activity to resume without restrictions.
Choi-Wan strengthened to 145 mph Sunday evening as it continued moving north away from the Mariana Islands,
In a notice issued to shipping agents, vessel masters, and facility operators, Worst said the port is “hereby open to all commercial traffic and cargo operations without restrictions,” marking a significant step in Saipan’s post‑storm recovery. However, the Port of Tinian remains closed to maritime traffic until further assessment.
The Coast Guard cautioned mariners to navigate carefully when entering or departing Saipan’s harbor. While no major obstructions were found, aids to navigation may have shifted and shoaling could have occurred during the typhoon. Mariners are encouraged to report any discrepancies via VHF channels 16 or 22A or by calling the Sector Guam Command Center.
Commercially regulated facilities may still face operational limitations, and the Coast Guard urged shipping agents and operators to coordinate directly with terminal managers to ensure safe cargo handling and vessel movements.
Questions regarding heavy weather conditions and port status may be directed to the USCG Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam Prevention Department.
