(AccuWeather) — Severe Tropical Storm Sinlaku near the island of Chuuk in the Federated States of Micronesia is nearly stationary and will remain quasi-stationary into Saturday, local time. Sinlaku is expected to reach typhoon intensity on Saturday, local time.
Sinlaku is expected to start a slow northwestward track Saturday night or Sunday, local time, with rapid strengthening likely. The storm is expected to become a strong typhoon or the equivalent of a Category 3 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane wind scale (110 mph or 178 km/h) by Monday.
Sinlaku can be a Category 4 hurricane (130 mph or 209 km/h) by the time it passes near or just south of Guam Monday night or Tuesday, local time. Areas of heavy rain, destructive winds and coastal inundation are anticipated across Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands from Sunday into Tuesday, local time. Power outages, structural damage and flooding are likely across the islands.
The storm will continue to track west-northwest over the Philippine Sea for a time early next week before an eventual turn to the north then northeast late next week. A northeastward acceleration is likely next weekend. The forecast track will keep the developing storm well east of the Philippines and south of Japan, but it may impact Japan’s Volcano Islands next weekend.
AccuWeather Expert Quotes:
“Sinlaku has a good chance to reach the equivalent of a Category 3 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale this weekend, and it could be near Category 4 strength as it passes near or just south of Guam early next week.”
“Sinlaku will produce destructive winds and flooding rainfall, likely leading to power outages and structural damage. This storm is a serious threat to the island.”
“Conditions can begin deteriorating on Guam late Sunday, but the most dangerous period is likely to be Monday into Tuesday, when wind, rain and coastal impacts peak.”
“Even if the track shifts a little north or south, Guam remains at risk for typhoon conditions. Small track changes will matter locally, but they will not eliminate the threat.”
“Flash flooding could become a major issue on Guam because Sinlaku may deliver heavy rain in a short time, and saturated ground can also raise the risk of mudslides.”
“Rough surf and dangerous rip currents are likely to build before the storm’s closest approach, so coastal hazards may arrive before the worst of the wind and rain.”
