(BECQ-DEQ) — The Division of Environmental Quality, under the Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality, is issuing a precautionary advisory for all recreational beaches on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota in anticipation of an approaching storm system over the weekend and into early next week of July 6, 2026.
Tropical Storm Bavi is expected to intensify and bring heavy rainfall, increased runoff, hazardous debris, and potential coastal water quality degradation. Periods of intense rainfall often result in stormwater runoff carrying pollutants such as bacteria, hazardous debris, and contaminants from roads, drainage systems, and surrounding land areas into nearshore waters. Stormwater drainage outfalls and low-lying coastal zones are especially vulnerable to elevated bacteria levels following heavy rains. These conditions may pose an increased risk to public health and safety.
As a precaution, the public is highly advised to avoid swimming, fishing, and other water-related activities at all Saipan, Tinian, and Rota beaches during the duration of the storm. Beachgoers who choose to enter the water do so at their own risk.
This special advisory supplements BECQ-DEQ’s routine weekly monitoring of marine recreational waters and storm drainage sites across Saipan. Water quality conditions will continue to be assessed, and updates will be provided as necessary.
Marine Water Quality Reports are available at: www.deq.gov.mp/beach-advisories.html/. BECQ-DEQ welcomes all inquiries regarding beach water quality at (670) 664-8500.
