Tropical Disturbance (Invest 98W)
THE National Weather Service Guam Weather Forecast Office continues to monitor a tropical disturbance, Invest 98W, as it continues its approach to the Mariana Islands. 98W was positioned overnight near 11 degrees north latitude and 149 degrees east longitude. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center upgraded the potential for development on Tuesday evening from a Low to Medium, meaning tropical cyclone development is likely but expected to occur beyond 24 hours.
What to Expect
98W is expected to continue toward the Marianas with gradual development in the coming days, eventually forming a low-level circulation center in the vicinity of Guam or Rota. A lot of uncertainties remain with this disturbance, but residents of the Marianas should plan for and expect periods of showers, thunderstorms, locally heavy rainfall the next several days. Winds are expected to increase late tonight and into Thursday as 98W nears, becoming gusty. NWS advised this does not appear to be a typhoon scenario for Guam, Rota, Tinian or Saipan, but it remains a possibility that some islands could eventually deal with a passing tropical depression, or a tropical storm.
A flash flood watch is in effect for Guam, Rota, Tinian, and Saipan through Friday afternoon. Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible. Rainfall amounts of 6 to 10 inches are possible through late Friday afternoon.
Prepare Now
Those living in flood-prone areas should take action; clear drainage areas and unblock storm drains to minimize flooding. Residents and visitors are advised to take the following precautionary actions:
• Stay up to date with the latest information;
• Clear loose debris around your yard and store any items, such as tents and canopies, that may become airborne with heavy winds, before inclement weather arrives;
• Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads;
• If driving, be alert for low visibilities in heavy rain;
• Slow down where water is ponding on the road;
• Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Avoid walking or driving through flood waters. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and 2 feet of water can sweep your vehicle away;
• Do not camp, park, or hike along streams and rivers. These areas can flood quickly and with little warning.
Visit the following links for the latest advisory information:
· NWS Website: https://www.weather.gov/gum/
· NWS Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NWSGuam/
· GHS/OCD Website: https://ghs.guam.gov/
· GHS/OCD Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GHSOCD/
