Guam/Mariana Islands: Severe damage and disruptions following Typhoon Yutu /update 2

Event

Super Typhoon Yutu slammed Guam and the Mariana Islands overnight October 24-25 (local time), having reached maximal Category 5 intensity. Maximum sustained winds of up to 265 km/h (165 mph) were recorded. The storm is currently moving away from the Mariana islands, which were particularly hard hit, in a west-northwest direction. As the worst of the storm has passed, winds are expected to decrease in intensity over the coming days. Storm warnings for Rota, Tinian, Saipan, and Guam have been lifted.

Local reports indicate severe damage to homes and critical infrastructure, notably in the Northern Mariana Islands, where water and power has been cut and roads blocked by debris. Residual disruptions are also to be expected at Guam International Airport (GUM) and Saipan International Airport (SPN), which sustained damages.

Context

Typhoon Yutu, the strongest storm of the year so far, is now making its way towards the Philippines and Taiwan.

Advice

Individuals present in the abovementioned locations are advised to be prepared for transportation and power disruptions, reconfirm flights, obey instructions issued by the local authorities, and avoid any flood-hit areas. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.