TROPICAL storm Halong, which is forecast to develop into a typhoon, is moving toward Saipan, according to the Joint Typhoon Warning Center.
“We are tracking it, and we are preparing for it,” Emergency Management Office Director Rudolfo M. Pua said yesterday.
Pua said Halong was forecast to hit Saipan and Tinian on Thursday—less than a week after typhoon Chataan pounded Rota and Guam with damaging winds and heavy rains.
“Typhoon conditions are possible on Thursday with a chance of damaging winds and heavy rain,” EMO said.
Winds between 15 mph and 25 mph are expected to hit Saipan as early as Wednesday afternoon.
Halong was located at 600 nautical miles east-southeast of Guam as of Monday afternoon.
It was centered northeast of Chuuk with maximum sustained winds of 45 miles per hour, and was moving west-northwest at 9 mph, according to the National Weather Service.
Lt. Gov. Diego T. Benavente, in a separate interview, said the preparations had started even before Halong developed into a tropical depression yesterday.
“The government stands ready to assist those who may be needing help, like temporary shelters. We just hope this would not really hit us,” Benavente said.
Pua called on residents to take the necessary precautions and preparations.
“Stock up on dry goods, make sure you have batteries and flashlights in case of power outages and fill your car gas tanks—do all the things you need to do to be well-prepared,” Pua said.
He said government-designated evacuation centers will be automatically activated as soon as the governor declares typhoon condition 2.
“We are prepared within the means of our resources right now, but we would never know the extent of the damage until its over,” Pua said.
Halong, which was only tropical depression 10W on Sunday, would be the next major typhoon to hit the Marianas this year.
EMO yesterday issued high surf and small craft advisories.
“Residents, mariners and beachgoers are advised to exercise caution for strong currents along reef lines,” EMO said.
Benavente said the assessment report on typhoon Chataan’s damages is expected to be completed in the next few days.
Chataan’s closest approach to Rota and Guam on Friday morning brought winds of up to 110 miles per hour and gusts up to 120 mph, damaging several structural and agricultural properties.
President Bush declared Guam a disaster area on Sunday.
