TROPICAL storm and typhoon conditions over the Marianas are possible on Friday due to tropical storm Chataan, according to the Emergency Management Office and the National Weather Service.
In an advisory yesterday, EMO and NWS said Chataan was expected to be in the southeast of the Marianas on Thursday, and to move near the island chain on Friday.
Residents have been encouraged to prepare for the storm which could pass the islands on Saturday.
Chataan was between Chuuk and Pohnpei as of yesterday afternoon and moving west-northwest at 7 miles per hour with maximum sustained winds of 60 mph.
The CNMI and Guam yesterday experienced large ocean swells, strong currents along the reef lines and rainshowers due to the approaching tropical storm.
Beachgoers, mariners and residents were advised to exercise caution.
“Large ocean swells generated southwest of Guam will continue to produce hazardous surf for the southern Mariana Islands through Wednesday,” EMO said.
EMO, however, canceled the small craft advisory yesterday morning.
Tropical storm Rammasun, earlier located near Yap and Palau, had left the Marianas area.
